Research by Author & Topic

Publications by Matthew Stagner on Children

Thirty percent of 6- to 12-year-old children with a working primary caretaker participate in "organized programs" such as day camps or summer school during the summer. School-age children spend roughly 10 more hours per week in both relative care and other supervised arrangements during the summer than the school year. Summer child care patterns also vary by the child's age and family income. Relatives are more likely to care for young children and low-income children are more likely to be in summer school. Eleven percent of children ages 6 to 12 are in self-care while the primary caretaker is working. On average, these children spend 6 hours more per week in self-care during the summer (10.3 hours total) than during the school year. Low-income families spend less on child care during the summer compared to the school year while higher-income families spend significantly more. [View the companion Fact Sheet]

(Christian Science Monitor) School is almost out. But most kids won't be on the loose. For months, the working parents of millions of 6- to 12-year-olds have been figuring out summer child care. Some have found great camps, and effective summer-school programs, or pressed relatives into service. But others may have to settle for less enriching activities or leave their children unsupervised at times. Are these less fortunate children at risk of physical, social, or emotional harm? Will they lose ground academically?