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The Effect of Non-Parental Childcare on Parental Employment, Care Time and Quality: Time Diary Evidence from Korea, the UK, and Denmark

Author

Listed:
  • Datta Gupta, Nabanita

    (Aarhus University)

  • Hedeager, Kristian

    (Kraka, Danmark)

  • Kim, Youngsook

    (Korean Women's Development Institute)

  • Stratton, Leslie

    (Virginia Commonwealth University)

Abstract

We compare the effects of non-parental care (NPC) for young children on mothers' and fathers' employment and childcare time, using data from Korea, the United Kingdom, and Denmark. Our findings indicate that mothers using NPC are more likely to be employed, particularly in Korea. Correspondingly, in all three countries mothers using NPC spend less time on childcare on weekdays, but in Korea less time is also spent on weekends and on quality care. The effects for fathers are rarely significant. We find evidence that family-friendly workplaces, care type, and gender norms all play a role in explaining the cross-country differences.

Suggested Citation

  • Datta Gupta, Nabanita & Hedeager, Kristian & Kim, Youngsook & Stratton, Leslie, 2026. "The Effect of Non-Parental Childcare on Parental Employment, Care Time and Quality: Time Diary Evidence from Korea, the UK, and Denmark," IZA Discussion Papers 18738, IZA Network @ LISER.
    • Handle: RePEc:iza:izadps:dp18738
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    JEL classification:

    • J13 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demographic Economics - - - Fertility; Family Planning; Child Care; Children; Youth
    • J22 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demand and Supply of Labor - - - Time Allocation and Labor Supply

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