Interventions that improve everyday life
At INVEST, research and societal impact go hand in hand: we not only design and test interventions, but also study their implementation in real-life settings. This ensures that all programmes are continuously evaluated and refined, advancing both wellbeing and implementation science.
INVEST develops and implements research-based interventions whose impact is visible in the everyday lives of children, young people and families. Their large-scale rollouts in wellbeing services counties and schools simultaneously generate new scientific knowledge and advance implementation science.
Key programmes
Voimaperheet: Notice the Good in Your Child
A digitally assisted parent training intervention for disruptive behaviour in 4-year-olds. Implemented in 12 wellbeing service counties; over 124,000 families screened, 6,500 participated, and 1,000 nurses trained. Research shows long-term positive effects on child behaviour and parenting skills.
Be Present for Your Child
A universal, digital parenting programme for families with 3-year-olds. Over 1,300 families registered in 12 counties. Pilot study showed reductions in conduct problems and irritability, and improved daily functioning.
Digitally-assisted CBT for Perinatal Depression
Evaluating cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) delivered during pregnancy to treat depressive symptoms. Expanded to 7 counties, collecting biological samples and video data on early mother–child interactions. Received funding from Research Council of Finland’s for RCT testing.
Strength in Growth
A digital intervention for early childhood education combining VR and remote coaching for staff teams. Aims to reduce children’s behavioural problems and harmonise teamwork practices. Field tested in 2024, moving towards RCT and potential commercialisation.
Towards a New Start
A mental health literacy programme for first-year university students. Reduced stress and improved attitudes toward seeking help. Adapted across four continents. Includes a CBT-based tool to reduce procrastination.
Learning About Emotions
A school-based emotional skills programme for elementary students. Tested in 14 schools; parents reported significant reductions in behavioural problems, especially among children with the highest initial difficulties.
The Incredible Years
Supports children with behavioural symptoms, their families, and the professionals working with them. Implemented in 18 counties; nearly 1,000 professionals and hundreds of parents have participated.
KiVa Antibullying Program®
One of the world’s most effective antibullying programmes. In use in 839 Finnish schools (covering 40% of pupils) and spread to 25 countries. In 2024, more than 780,000 students benefited globally.
Opintokamu®
A programme for upper secondary schools and vocational institutes, focusing on learning, relationships and emotional wellbeing. Used in 44 institutions (10.6% of schools), praised for its accessibility and usefulness.
All these interventions are evidence-based, continuously evaluated, and tailored to real-world needs. Through them, INVEST turns science into practical solutions that improve the lives of children, youth and families.