INQUIRY INVESTIGATION:

By: Willow Kott

Background:

■ Several studies have shown a rise in single- parent house holds since the 1960’s

■ A rise in childhood poverty has been associated with this single-parenthood

How does the structure of a family
effect children?
■ Children in single-parent households may have a lower standard of living
– Family income can be a good predictor of test scores and grades

 Parents are main sources of capital & provide resources

 Resources could be emotional support, psychological support,
encouragement, social interactions, help with homework and extra
curricular activities
 Therefore, in single parent homes children may get less of these
resources than in two parent households

 Instability in a single-parent household can also effect school performance and

retainment of information
Growing up in Poverty:

■ Increases the risk of becoming a single parent

– Also then includes risk of academic issues for ones own children

■ Often times in areas of poverty there are alcohol or substance abuse problems, and poor
social and parenting skills
– These factors can increase risk of single-parenting situations and interrupt
relationships with the children
 Stress:

■ Living in poverty can cause children to deal with a high level of stress
– It is not healthy for younger children to have to deal with these types of things
in their lives

■ Having a tough family structure can also cause high levels of stress
– If a child has to consistently worry about who will be taking care of them, who will
help them with their homework, or who will simply be there for them this can be a
large disruption in their lives

■ We know that stress can cause academic and social issues

– There are many ways that educators can help children that have to deal with
these problems
 How to be inclusive & helpful to single-
parent children in education:
■ Provide Resources!
– Stay after school with children to give them extra help
– Make sure they know that you have resources available for them to help
– Create strong relationships so they know they can rely on you
– Refer them to other teachers or guidance counselors if they feel comfortable to
talk
– If there is homework, allow for them to come to school early or stay late to get it
done and not stress about it

■ Most Importantly:
– Be the one! Be their person if they don’t have anyone else. They may not get these
relationships at home, so if you feel comfortable, show them what they mean to you!