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Seasonal Migration and Early Childhood Development

Author

Listed:
  • Karen Macours

    (JHU - Johns Hopkins University)

  • Renos Vakis

    (Banque Mondiale - Banque Mondiale)

Abstract

This paper provides unique evidence of the positive consequences of seasonal migration for investments in early childhood development. We analyze migration in a poor shock-prone border region in rural Nicaragua where it offers one of the main household income diversification and risk -coping strategies. IV estimates show, somewhat surprisingly, that shock-driven migration by mothers has a positive effect on early cognitive development. We attribute these findings to changes in income and to the intra-household empowerment gains resulting from mother's migration, which offset potential negative early childhood development effects from temporary lack of parenting.

Suggested Citation

  • Karen Macours & Renos Vakis, 2010. "Seasonal Migration and Early Childhood Development," Post-Print halshs-00754445, HAL.
    • Handle: RePEc:hal:journl:halshs-00754445
    DOI: 10.1016/j.worlddev.2010.02.012
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Karen Macours & Norbert Schady & Renos Vakis, 2012. "Cash Transfers, Behavioral Changes, and Cognitive Development in Early Childhood: Evidence from a Randomized Experiment," American Economic Journal: Applied Economics, American Economic Association, vol. 4(2), pages 247-273, April.
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