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One Step at a Time: The Effects of an Early Literacy Text-Messaging Program for Parents of Preschoolers

Author

Listed:
  • Benjamin N. York
  • Susanna Loeb
  • Christopher Doss

Abstract

Large systematic differences in young children’s home learning experiences have long-term economic consequences. Many parenting programs place significant demands on parents’ time and inundate parents with information. This study evaluates the effects of READY4K!, an eight-month-long text-messaging intervention for parents of preschoolers that targets the behavioral barriers to engaged parenting. We find that READY4K! increased parental involvement at home and school by 0.15 to 0.29 standard deviations, leading to child gains in early literacy of about 0.11 standard deviations. The results point to the salience of behavioral barriers to parenting and the potential for low-cost interventions to reduce these barriers.

Suggested Citation

  • Benjamin N. York & Susanna Loeb & Christopher Doss, 2019. "One Step at a Time: The Effects of an Early Literacy Text-Messaging Program for Parents of Preschoolers," Journal of Human Resources, University of Wisconsin Press, vol. 54(3), pages 537-566.
    • Handle: RePEc:uwp:jhriss:v:54:y:2019:i:3:p:537-566
    Note: DOI: 10.3368/jhr.54.3.0517-8756R
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    More about this item

    JEL classification:

    • C93 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Design of Experiments - - - Field Experiments
    • D91 - Microeconomics - - Micro-Based Behavioral Economics - - - Role and Effects of Psychological, Emotional, Social, and Cognitive Factors on Decision Making
    • I21 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Education - - - Analysis of Education

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