With China's rapidly developing economy and increasing urbanization, many adults from rural areas migrate to urban areas for better paid jobs. A side effect of this migration is that parents frequently leave their children behind (left-behind children). This research investigated left-behind children's and non-left-behind children's psychological,…

As childhood obesity has increased, schools have struggled with their role in this epidemic. Parents with a school-age child in a suburban latchkey program were surveyed regarding their perceptions of childhood obesity, body mass index, and the school's role in prevention and treatment of obesity. More than 80% of participants identified…

Describes the use of children's drawings to evaluate their attitudes about having to take care of themselves. States that using drawings with special populations can give evaluators the opportunity to obtain data that otherwide would not be collected. (CH)

Presents an overview of research on factors that influence the latchkey experience, and a survey that can be used in assessing conditions that exist with latchkey children on the local level. Practical suggestions for the counselor's role are given. (BL)

Excessive television viewing is associated with obesity in children because it decreases time spent on physical activity, and promotes overeating of snacks and high calorie foods. Childhood obesity demands physicians' concern because of the physical and psychological damage which follows its victims into adulthood. (IAH)

The self-care (or latchkey) arrangement has emerged in the 1980s as a topic of interest to parents, practitioners, and policy makers. Reviews major policy issues and questions about self-care. The following topics are covered: the meaning of self-care, consequences of self-care for children's development, policy implications, and resources for…

This report summarizes key findings from a 1999 nationwide poll regarding support and demand for after-school programs. Participating in the poll were 1,100 adults over age 18 who are registered to vote, and an oversample of 100 parents of school-age children. The findings indicated that 92 percent of respondents agreed that there should be an…

This article addresses the concerns of parents who must arrange after school day care for their school-age children. Various arrangements, such as after school programs and telephone hotlines, are described, as are steps for implementing such plans. (JL)

While self care is not always harmful, research finds that when children under 13 are regularly left to spend time alone or to be cared for by young siblings, they may be at risk for injuries and developmental problems. This research brief focuses on two groups of children that may be particularly vulnerable when they lack regular adult…

Considers well-being of children who are home alone during part of the day. Addresses questions parents, researchers, and family life educators may have about self-care. Reviews five related research studies defining the self-care arrangement, the number of children in self-care arrangement, the number of children in self-care, impact of self-care…

This report summarizes key findings from a 2000 nationwide poll regarding support and demand for after-school programs. Participating in the poll were 800 adults over age 18 who are registered to vote. The findings included the following: (1) 92 percent of respondents agreed that there should be an organized activity/place for children and teens…

This study examined child care patterns during the summer months among 6- to 12-year-old children with employed parents or primary caretakers. Using interview data from the 1999 National Survey of Americas Families, the study analyzed two key aspects of summer child care: the types of arrangements for school-age children and the amount families…

Created national estimates from 1984 Current Population Survey of number of school-age children in self-care at some time of day. Results suggest self-care most likely used by middle- to upper-income White mothers in suburban or rural areas, with no other adult in household, for older children, and for only for short time each day. (Author/NB)

This guide outlines a step-by-step procedure for requesting school board approval for school-based child care programs. Individuals or groups contemplating the creation of such programs need to: (1) gain community support through public meetings; (2) approach school board members and district officials to gauge their level of support; (3) document…

Surveyed 90 children (aged 4-12) who called PhoneFriend child help-line to examine their coping strategies when home after school with no adults. Boredom was most frequent reason given for calling; watching television was most popular support activity reported. Children reported often having siblings or friends with them, and many regularly called…