Survive and Thrive in Brazil: The Boa Vista Early Childhood Program: Study protocol of a stepped wedge randomized controlled trial

<title>Abstract</title> Background: A growing body of evidence suggests that early life health and developmental outcomes can be improved through parental support programs. The objective of this project was to test the feasibility, impact, and relative cost-effectiveness of an adapted “Reach Up and Learn” program delivered through home visiting programs as well as through center-based parenting groups on child health and development in the municipality of Boa Vista, Brazil. Methods: A randomized stepped wedge design was used to roll out and evaluate the two parenting platforms in Boa Vista municipality. A total of 39 neighborhoods with high vulnerability index were selected for the study. For the first phase of the program, 9 neighborhoods were randomly selected for home visits, and 2…