ROLLING OUT SNAP® AN EVIDENCE-BASED INTERVENTION: A SUMMARY OF IMPLEMENTATION, EVALUATION, AND RESEARCH

Abstract

<p>This article describes the evolutionary process of developing, disseminating, and implementing an evidence-based intervention model for children in conflict with the law. Stop Now And Plan (SNAP^®), a Canadian, evidence-based gender sensitive model for young children in conflict with the law, was initiated in 1985 in response to the de-criminalization of children under 12 in Canada. This community-based model is well validated for its efficacious outcomes on reducing problem behaviours in this high-risk population, helping to shift the trajectory of criminal outcome. The article describes the lessons learned during the evaluation, implementation, and replication of SNAP^® and the resulting creation of a stringent implementation approach. Currently under the management of the Centre for Children Committing Offences (CCCO), replication sites known as SNAP^®Affiliates, enter into a formalized licensing agreement that includes assessing site readiness and theoretical philosophy, ongoing training and consultation, and an accreditation quality assurance process. This formalized approach has been adopted to ensure sites are able to deliver the highest quality of service and to replicate successful outcomes, changing life course trajectories of these high-risk children and families.</p>