The impact of maternal education on children's enrollment in early childhood education and care

This study examined the influence of maternal education and other child and family characteristics on the enrollment of children in early childhood education and care. Data come from the National Household Education Survey for a 14-year period and include children ages 0–5 years old. Multinomial logit analysis was employed to show the effect of maternal education on the likelihood of being enrolled in a specific type of care arrangement including both formal and informal settings. Findings suggest that more advantaged children, even those under 3 years of age, enroll in higher quality settings, thereby granting them an advantage when they begin school.

Research highlights► Maternal education is associated with enrollment in non-parental care. ► Maternal education is associated with enrollment in formal care, namely center-based care. ► Results are consistent for 0–2 and 3–5 years old children.