Feasibility and Preliminary Efficacy of the Cool Kids Anxiety Programme in Estonia: A Pilot Waitlist Randomised Controlled Trial

This is a feasibility waitlist randomised controlled trial (RCT) examining the Cool Kids cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) programme for child anxiety in Estonia. The study aims to (1) assess the feasibility and acceptability of implementing Cool Kids in the Estonian context; (2) collect preliminary outcome data on child anxiety and parenting competence to estimate effect sizes for a future fully-powered RCT; and (3) provide a preliminary assessment of programme cost-effectiveness. The study is commissioned by the Estonian Ministry of Social Affairs and implemented in collaboration with the implementing partner MTÜ Ojaveere. The Cool Kids programme is a group-based, manualised CBT programme for children aged 7–17 years and their caregivers. Participants will be randomised to either an immediate intervention group (spring 2026) or a waitlist control group (autumn 2026). Quantitative outcome data will be collected at baseline (T0) and post-intervention (T1) using validated self-report questionnaires. Qualitative data will be collected via semi-structured interviews with children, caregivers, therapists, and implementing organisation representatives.