A Systematic Review of Intergenerational Program Implementation Involving Young Children

There is increasing evidence that intergenerational programs (IGPs), which use shared activities to connect older and younger age groups, lead to educational and psychosocial benefits for young children. However, insufficient attention to implementation within the emerging, cross-disciplinary field limits understanding of how evidence-informed IGP practices support positive outcomes in early childhood. These difficulties impede the interpretation, comparison and application of IGP findings by researchers, practitioners and policymakers. Therefore, the purpose of this review was to employ explicit, systematic methods to examine and synthesise recent evidence relating to the implementation of sustained, non-familial group-based IGPs in early childhood contexts. Specifically, we aimed to: (a) evaluate the current evidence for effective IGP implementation and (b) investigate key methodological considerations using core implementation process constructs drawn from the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research 2.0. Following a robust screening process, eighteen peer-reviewed articles were identified. The findings highlight achievements, challenges and gaps in the field from an implementation science lens. Some important implications for practice in intergenerational contexts include the need to build implementation teams, plan IGPs, assess context-specific and participant needs, and adapt IGPs for optimal fit.