Measuring global trends in child care & supervision: Evidence from international household surveys

Objectives Lack of quality child supervision has been identified as risk factor for child injuries, antisocial and risky behaviors, poorer school performance, and negative developmental outcomes. Population-based data on this... [ view full abstract ]

Objectives
Lack of quality child supervision has been identified as risk factor for child injuries, antisocial and risky behaviors, poorer school performance, and negative developmental outcomes. Population-based data on this phenomenon is scarce, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.
Method
This paper presents a global study to assess the prevalence of non-adult supervision of children under five and the factors associated with that practice cross-culturally. Descriptive and multivariate analyses were conducted using key indicators of child development and supervision across more than 70 countries participating in the Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS) 3-5 and the Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS) VI. Findings were complemented with semi-structured interviews with over 30 child development and protection professionals in participating countries and regions.
Results
Both MICS & DHS provide internationally comparable statistical estimates of socioeconomic and other indicators to monitor child care and supervision of children in selected low- and middle-income countries. Factors associated with use of non-adult care varied significantly across countries and survey wave, with no single socio-economic trait yielding consistent results across all locations and time periods. Additional factors provided as plausible explanation of results are not included in current measures and therefore need to be tested by other means. Evidence on child supervision is critical to inform policy-makers as well as clinicians.
Conclusions
Despite their limitations, international household surveys provide a valuable tool to monitor child care and supervision practices. Qualitative & ethnographic work is needed to interpret results. Recommendations are provided for improved measurement of non-adult child care and supervision and to inform the development of suitable policies and interventions to enhance child supervision in low- and middle-income countries.