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Caregiver decision-making on young child schooling/care in the face of COVID-19: The influence of child, caregiver, and systemic factors

Author

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  • Quetsch, Lauren B.
  • Jackson, Carrie B.
  • Onovbiona, Harlee
  • Bradley, Rebecca

Abstract

In March 2020, U.S. schools and daycares largely shut down to manage the novel COVID-19 pandemic. As the country made efforts to reopen the economy, American parents faced difficult decisions regarding returning to work and securing schooling and care for their young children. During the summer and fall of 2020, caregivers (N = 1655) of children (N = 2408; ages 0 – 12 years) completed questionnaires assessing their decision-making process regarding their children’s daycare or schooling situation. A mixed method approach (i.e., qualitative, quantitative assessments) was utilized. Outcomes indicated three main themes that impacted caregivers’ choices: child factors, caregiver factors, and systemic factors. Caregivers experienced high levels of stress while worrying about their child’s and family’s health, job responsibilities, and risk of COVID-19 infection rates in their areas. Continued assessment of families and children during this time is warranted.

Suggested Citation

  • Quetsch, Lauren B. & Jackson, Carrie B. & Onovbiona, Harlee & Bradley, Rebecca, 2022. "Caregiver decision-making on young child schooling/care in the face of COVID-19: The influence of child, caregiver, and systemic factors," Children and Youth Services Review, Elsevier, vol. 136(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:cysrev:v:136:y:2022:i:c:s0190740922000731
    DOI: 10.1016/j.childyouth.2022.106437
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Amy Ellen Schwartz & Michah W. Rothbart, 2020. "Let Them Eat Lunch: The Impact of Universal Free Meals on Student Performance," Journal of Policy Analysis and Management, John Wiley & Sons, Ltd., vol. 39(2), pages 376-410, March.
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