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Exploring the Socio-Ecological Dynamics of High-Quality Childcare Services and Their
Impact on Low-Income Families
Chapter 1
Chantelle Bonds
Northcentral University
DIS-9901A v3: Components of the Dissertation
Dr. Melodi Guilbault
December 10, 2023
2
Table of Contents
Chapter 1 ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 3
Relevance and Importance of the Research Topic ………………………………………………………… 5
Background: Topic research and its practical and theoretical significance ………………………. 6
Statement of the Problem ……………………………………………………………………………………………… 7
Purpose of the Study ……………………………………………………………………………………………………. 9
Introduction to the Framework ……………………………………………………………………………………. 11
Key Concepts and Relations ……………………………………………………………………………………. 11
Relevant to the Studies……………………………………………………………………………………………. 12
Guiding the Research Decisions ………………………………………………………………………………. 12
Integration of Multiple Frameworks …………………………………………………………………………. 13
Introduction to Research Methodology and Design ……………………………………………………….. 13
Qualitative Research Questions …………………………………………………………………………………… 14
Summary ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 15
References ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 16
3
Chapter 1
In the intricate weave of societal advancement, the provision of high-quality childcare
services emerges as a pivotal determinant, exerting far-reaching influence on the fabric of
individual families and the broader socio-economic milieu. The quality of care for a child
determines their mental and physical development, which influences their future. The complex
relationship between childcare quality and family outcomes demands extensive research to
understand how they affect each other. Some studies indicate that the family outcome is
dependent on the quality care of a child, while at the same time, the quality care of a child is
dependent on the family’s income (Cuartas, 2022; Sano et al., 2021). It implies that the two
elements, childcare and family outcomes, are interlinked. Through this study, we seek to
understand their relationship by examining the socio-ecological contexts, theoretical foundations,
key concepts, and notions around the subject of study. Therefore, the study will unravel the
mystery and complexity of childcare quality and its impact on the lives of low-income families.
For instance, Naumann (2022) asserts that quality childcare can lead to benefits like gender
equality in society. Therefore, there is a clear indication that through the services of good
childcare, there is support for the parents, especially in engaging in employment that is gainful to
boost families from economic insecurities. It means that they can justify the so-called “doubt
shift” that the mothers have to cope with, hence resulting in better health in children and parents.
Additionally, the children receiving services of quality childcare end up developing learning and
social skills at a tender age. Moreover, such skills aid the children in building up and maintaining
a good rapport with the parents, other children, and adults.
The cascading effects of high-quality childcare transcend conventional economic
dimensions, reaching into the educational trajectories and societal contributions of the children
4
involved. By providing a secure and nurturing environment, quality childcare equips children to
excel academically, laying the groundwork for future success (Sano et al., 2021). Moreover, it
plays a vital role in crime prevention, offering structured supervision that diminishes the risk of
delinquent behavior (Holtermann, 2019). The provision of high-quality childcare services is an
essential lifeline for low-income families, offering them the invaluable flexibility needed to
maintain employment and pursue educational opportunities (Holtermann, 2019). By ensuring
that their children receive attentive care, parents can extend their working hours without
compromising the well-being of their offspring. This, in turn, fosters economic stability within
these families, breaking the cycle of financial vulnerability. Quality daycare services contribute
significantly to the educational trajectory of children from low-income backgrounds
(Holtermann, 2019). With a secure and enriching environment, kids are better positioned to excel
in school, setting the foundation for a brighter future (Holtermann, 2019). As parents seize the
opportunity to work longer hours, invest in education, and secure a stable income, the likelihood
of the family falling into poverty diminishes. Beyond economic implications, these childcare
services play a pivotal role in crime prevention, offering children a structured and supervised
setting that reduces the risk of delinquent behavior. Furthermore, the intersection of high-quality
childcare services and business engagement extends beyond social concerns to the pivotal role
companies play in addressing familial needs. Businesses contribute by recognizing the strategic
importance of childcare in fostering a productive workforce. Implementing on-site childcare
facilities or flexible work arrangements demonstrates a commitment to employee well-being and
family support. Further, corporate initiatives investing in community childcare programs can
bridge accessibility gaps for low-income families. By identifying opportunities and advocating
for supportive policies, businesses become integral partners in cultivating an environment where
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the synergy between economic prosperity and family welfare flourishes. In essence, this research
contends that the socio-ecological dynamics of high-quality childcare services not only alleviate
immediate economic burdens on low-income families but also serve as a catalyst for broader
societal advancement, with businesses playing a pivotal role in shaping a more equitable and
prosperous future through strategic initiatives and policy advocacy.
Relevance and Importance of the Research Topic
Researching the impact of high-quality childcare services on low-income families is
relevant to modern society and imperative. Understanding how high-quality childcare services
affect people’s lives is important to enable relevant authorities to enact policies that will boost
childcare services by making the parents have long working hours, keep their jobs, and continue
their education since their children are being taken care of well. The absence of quality daycare
services in low-income families or regions is a critical issue that needs to be addressed.
According to Sano et al. (2021), several studies underscore the impact or importance of quality
childcare services in the early stages of child development. However, it is widely noted that
quality care of a child during their early stages of development enhances their mental and
physical health, apart from psychological health. Therefore, this research is of great importance
to the community. It provides insight to relevant authorities for policy development while
assisting scholars in doing more research in this area. Contributing to the scholarly discourse on
childhood development and family well-being is critical in enhancing families’ welfare and
livelihood. Since high-quality daycare services are essential to low-income and high-income
families, understanding its influence through this study will foster a more equitable and
supportive environment for the child and the family for their well-being.
6
Background: Topic research and its practical and theoretical significance
The study of high-quality childcare services for low-income families is a pertinent topic
to understand. Community members need to understand it, while relevant authorities or
organizations need to understand. The absence of quality care services in low-income regions has
far-reaching implications. According to Cuartas (2022), the lack of high-quality childcare
services compromises a child’s early development. As a result, their cognitive and mental state is
impaired. Studies have shown that low-income regions often lack access to quality daycare
services or programs, which contributes to the impairment of a child’s social and cognitive
development (Sano et al., 2021). The child’s ability to succeed in their education, graduate high
school, or have opportunities to break free from the poverty lifecycle declines. Due to this
situation, where the poverty lifecycle is persistent in low-income communities, issues of crime,
substance abuse, and mental health increase (Schickedanz et al., 2021). According to Cuartas
(2022), the context of the impact of the lack of quality daycare services in a low-income
community implies that there is a need for the government and other relevant authorities
(government and non-governmental agencies) to establish regulations, policies, or programs that
will improve the quality of services to enhance the community’s overall welfare and economic
state. A comprehensive study on this topic is essential to address these gaps and provide a
holistic understanding of the challenges and opportunities surrounding childcare quality in lowincome communities. This research will help guide policy decisions, program creation, and local
initiatives by investigating socio-ecological circumstances, theoretical underpinnings, essential
concepts, and notions surrounding childcare quality and family outcomes.
For low-income families, finding affordable, high-quality daycare services is a challenge.
It obstructs their ability to work and attain economic independence. For instance, when there is a
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lack of quality daycare services, a parent is forced to stay home to look after their child
(Schickedanz et al., 2021). As a result, their ability to advance their career or get close to
employment opportunities is compromised. There is a need for a practical solution that enhances
the affordability and availability of quality daycare services to low-income communities.
Availing such services will have far-reaching consequences on low-income families and the
larger society.
Several factors have contributed to the availability of poor-quality daycare services in
low-income families. According to Cuartas (2022), the widening racial and ethnic divide has
affected children’s early development and parental well-being. Due to poor quality childcare
services, the cycle of poverty has persisted in low-income communities, which impacts their
social and economic state. The situation where a parent takes care of their child due to the
unavailability of high-quality services renders a parent unable to break free from the poverty
cycle. However, parents’ poverty cycle would likely change if there were quality and affordable
daycare services in low-income regions. They will face many opportunities that will enhance
their well-being and ability to take care of their families effectively.
Statement of the Problem
The identified business problem revolves around the scarcity of high-quality daycare
services and the effect of the shortage on the economic stability and productivity of the
workforce, particularly within low-income communities (Sano et al., 2021). The lack of
accessible and quality daycare services makes it harder for parents, especially low-income ones,
to work, progress, and contribute to the workforce. This issue directly affects staff availability
and performance, affecting enterprises. Organizational success depends on attracting and
maintaining qualified workers in today’s competitive business climate. However, the need for
8
decent daycare in low-income neighborhoods limits the talent pool for local firms. The lack of
reliable daycare makes it hard for parents to find and keep jobs. Organizations that rely on a
steady staff for growth and productivity are affected.
Access to adequate daycare is crucial to family economic security. Beyond societal
considerations, this issue affects the labor market and organizational performance (Cuartas,
2022). Low-income businesses struggle to retain employees and have high turnover due to a lack
of daycare. Workforce continuity disruptions reduce productivity and corporate goals.
Poor daycare services also hurt the business community. When a large section of the
workforce is limited by childcare, low-income businesses may struggle to attract investors and
grow. Businesses seeking sustainable growth must address the lack of high-quality daycare in
low-income areas as a social obligation and strategic need. Businesses must acknowledge that
affordable and reliable daycare facilities significantly impact their labor dynamics beyond their
moral commitment to help their communities (Cuartas, 2022). Quality childcare attracts and
retains competent and dedicated workers, improving employee satisfaction, loyalty, and
productivity. Investing in daycare services strategically promotes corporate social responsibility
(CSR), enhancing community connections and the business climate. Businesses also benefit from
stable and engaged employees, which reduces attrition and recruitment costs. As firms realize the
link between social impact and commercial performance, closing the childcare gap becomes a
philanthropic undertaking and a crucial step toward developing resilient, sustainable, and
socially responsible businesses.
Understanding the specific challenges low-income families face in accessing quality
daycare services, how these challenges affect their economic stability, and how businesses and
policymakers can help solve this business problem is essential to solving it (Araujo et al., 2021).
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This research attempts to illuminate these complexities and provide actionable insights for
businesses to support their employees, assisting low-income areas to grow economically.
Purpose of the Study
This mixed-method research aims to comprehensively investigate the intricate interplay
between childcare service quality and the well-being of low-income families, guided by the
Socio-Ecological Model. The study has three primary objectives: firstly, to evaluate how highquality daycare services influence the economic stability of low-income families; secondly, to
scrutinize the interplay between individual characteristics, particularly childcare quality, and
environmental factors, such as socioeconomic position, in shaping family well-being; and
thirdly, to examine the moderating role of government, business and social policies in this
dynamic. This qualitative research employs an ethnographic approach, delving into the lives of
families utilizing childcare services across diverse low-income areas in Arizona.
Through participant observation and in-depth interviews, researchers will immerse
themselves in the daily lives of these families, gaining insights into their challenges, aspirations,
childcare access, and benefit struggles. By embedding themselves in these communities, the
researchers will discern how cultural, social, and economic factors impact families’ decisions
regarding childcare services. Further, the research recognizes the significance of integrating
businesses into the scope of this study to unravel the multifaceted impacts of childcare service
quality on both low-income families and local businesses. Recognizing that businesses are
integral components of the socio-economic ecosystem, our investigation seeks to understand how
childcare decisions made by low-income families reverberate through the business landscape. By
examining the interplay between childcare quality and economic stability for families, we extend
this analysis to discern how local businesses, particularly those offering childcare-related
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services or flexible employment options, are influenced. Furthermore, we will explore the
potential benefits and challenges faced by businesses as they navigate the complexities
associated with employees who are also caregivers. This expanded perspective not only provides
a comprehensive understanding of the socio-ecological dynamics within communities but also
lays the groundwork for fostering symbiotic relationships between businesses and families.
Ultimately, including businesses in our study enriches our insights, contributing to a holistic
approach that acknowledges the interconnectedness of social, economic, and familial well-being.
This research adopts an ethnographic approach, employing participant observation and
in-depth interviews to comprehensively explore the lives of families utilizing childcare services
in various low-income locations in Arizona. This method allows researchers to uncover tacit
knowledge and unspoken experiences, providing a nuanced understanding of the cultural, social,
and economic factors influencing families’ childcare decisions. The 50-60 families selected will
represent diverse socioeconomic backgrounds, ensuring a comprehensive exploration of the
subject. Stringent measures for informed consent and sensitive data management will be
implemented. Qualitative data analysis will be facilitated through NVivo, enabling a thorough
examination of the nuanced narratives. On the quantitative front, the study will collect and
analyze income, number of children, and age data, utilizing a mixed-method approach to
triangulate conclusions. This meticulous methodology aims to bridge gaps in social science and
business research by elucidating the relationship between childcare quality and economic
stability in low-income communities, offering valuable insights for businesses operating within
these contexts.
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Introduction to the Framework
The guiding framework for this research is the Socio-Ecological Model (SEM). It is a
theoretical framework that explores the intricate connections between people and their
communities. The framework acknowledges the interplay of various factors affecting human
behavior and well-being across all levels: interpersonal, individual, community, and societal
(Brinkman et al., 2021). The framework postulates that changes at one level might have knockon consequences across other levels, altering the course of events for individuals and families.
Key Concepts and Relations
1. Individual Level: The quality of childcare programs is fundamental at the individual
level. Howden-Chapman et al. (2023) found that the quality of childcare services available to
low-income families substantially impacted children’s and parents’ well-being. Suitable for both
kids and parents, high-quality childcare services help kids grow and thrive.
2. Interpersonal Level: The socioeconomic status of the family, including its income,
work prospects, food security, and financial sufficiency, is taken into account at the interpersonal
level (Sano et al., 2021). At this stage, family well-being is vital; it encompasses the material,
psychological, and social conditions of domestic life. Parents can better provide for their children
and maintain stable employment when they have access to high-quality childcare options.
3. Community Level: The community level in the SEM recognizes the significance of
one’s immediate surroundings and the resources accessible to the family unit. The effects of
childcare services on family well-being include neighborhood quality, access to support
resources, and community agencies (Wang et al., 2023).
4. Societal Level: At the societal level are the more extensive policies, cultural norms,
and social structures that may either help or hurt low-income families’ access to effective
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childcare services (Pyo et al., 2023). Allocation of social resources and policies may impact the
cost and accessibility of childcare, which in turn can affect the well-being of families.
Relevant to the Studies
The Socio-Ecological Model directs the expression of important ideas relevant to the
study’s focus. According to Howden-Chapman et al. (2023), high-quality childcare facilities
provide substantial advantages to low-income families by positively improving their economic
stability. This means that access to high-quality childcare services has the potential to alleviate
economic hardship in low-income households.
Individual elements such as childcare quality, as well as environmental factors such as
socioeconomic status and neighborhood circumstances, all play important roles in determining
family well-being (Sano et al., 2021; Wang et al., 2022). This emphasizes the linked nature of
these components, underlining the importance of taking into account both individual and
environmental dimensions for a complete knowledge of the complicated dynamics influencing
family welfare in the field of childcare services.
Furthermore, the relationship between childcare quality and family well-being is affected
by community and societal factors such as neighborhood quality and social policies (Pyo et al.,
2023). This realization emphasizes the larger contextual elements that impact the complicated
link between childcare quality and overall family well-being. In essence, neighborhood and
cultural variables emerge as key influences on childcare intervention outcomes.
Guiding the Research Decisions
The Socio-Ecological Model guided the problem statement by providing a holistic
understanding of how inadequate childcare services may impair family well-being. The paradigm
stressed the need to study childcare and families’ social, economic, and environmental contexts.
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The framework also inspired the mission statement by emphasizing the need to study factor
interactions and their impacts on family well-being. The SEM’s focus on several dimensions
allowed researchers to examine how personal, social, neighborhood, and societal factors affect
low-income families. The conceptual framework shaped the study subjects. They want to study
how socioeconomic status, neighborhood quality, and social policies moderate the association
between childcare quality and family well-being.
Integration of Multiple Frameworks
Although the Socio-Ecological Model provides a primary theoretical framework guiding
the research process, its research design integrates the findings of numerous studies (Brinkman et
al., 2021; Howden-Chapman, 2023; Pyo, 2023; Sano, 2021; Wang, 2023). This comprehensive
literature provided additional dimensions and components to structure and model the research
framework to enhance the audience’s understanding of the research topic. Thus, the SocioEcological Model is beneficial for studying how low-quality childcare affects low-income
families’ economic stability. It guides researchers through investigating several levels of impact
and constructing the problem statement, purpose statement, and research questions to assist them
in understanding the complex processes affecting vulnerable families.
Introduction to Research Methodology and Design
A complex relationship exists between daycare services and family well-being in lowincome areas. As per this research, exploring the impact of daycare services on such families will
provide insight into what must be done to improve their general well-being and economic
stability. Additionally, it examines the complex socio-ecological framework and provides a
broad contextually embedded understanding of low-income families’ experiences. According to
Jarvie (2012), qualitative research can explore the complex relationship between childcare
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quality and family well-being. It captures people’s viewpoints, experiences, and narratives for an
in-depth analysis. The project seeks qualitative data from low-income families, childcare
providers, and community members through in-depth interviews and focus groups. The study’s
goals of exposing the intricate relationships between childcare quality and family well-being
within the socio-ecological framework fit the qualitative phenomenological technique. The
chosen method and design enable a deeper understanding of individuals’ perspectives and
experiences than quantitative approaches. This allows an exploration of multi-dimensional
influences on family outcomes in the context of childcare availability and quality, aligning with
the problem, goal, and phenomenological research objectives.
Qualitative Research Questions
RQ1: How does the quality of childcare programs affect low-income families’ economic
stability, and what strategies can businesses use to help families obtain high-quality childcare
and create a more stable and productive workforce?
RQ2: How can businesses work with local communities and policymakers to help lowincome families find reliable childcare that improves work-life balance and job satisfaction?
RQ3: How does childcare quality affect low-income families’ financial security, and how
can businesses use support mechanisms like childcare assistance programs or flexible work
arrangements to mitigate the economic impact and improve employee well-being?
RQ4: How do low-income families choose a childcare provider, and what partnerships or
initiatives can businesses take to ensure that their childcare options meet the diverse needs of
their workforce, helping families and society grow economically?
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Summary
In conclusion, this business-based research shows how low-income regions’ lack of highquality daycare options affects families’ economic well-being. The study correlates with
corporate studies by emphasizing the importance of affordable and reliable childcare services in
labor productivity and stability. The identified problem shows that high-quality daycare is not
just a social issue but essential for low-income families’ economic success. This study underlines
the link between family results, economic stability, and productivity as organizations prioritize
workforce well-being. The socio-ecological model-based research examines how childcare
services affect low-income families, using qualitative methodologies to explore these
interactions. The findings, which are relevant to business, suggest strategic interventions that use
high-quality childcare to build a resilient, satisfied, and committed workforce, supporting lowincome businesses’ social responsibility and sustainable growth goals.
16
References
Araujo, M. C., Dormal, M., Grantham-McGregor, S., Lazarte, F., Rubio-Codina, M., & Schady,
N. (2021). Home visiting at scale and child development. Journal of Public Economics
Plus, 2, 100003. https://doi.org/10.1016/J.PUBECP.2021.100003
Cuartas, J. (2022). The effect of maternal education on parenting and early childhood
development: An instrumental variables approach. Journal of Family Psychology : JFP :
Journal of the Division of Family Psychology of the American Psychological Association
(Division 43), 36(2), 280–290. https://doi.org/10.1037/FAM0000886
Fitzpatrick, A., & Beam, E. (2023). Improving childcare quality through social franchising. AEA
Randomized Controlled Trials. https://doi.org/10.1257/rct.11747
Holtermann, A. (2019). Goldilocks work – childcare: Can childcare work be designed to promote
physical activity, fitness and General Health in childcare workers? Http://Isrctn.Com/.
https://doi.org/10.1186/isrctn15644757
Naumann, I. (2022). Why good childcare provision is important for gender equality. Futurum
Careers. https://doi.org/10.33424/futurum321
Pyo, J., Lee, W., Choi, E. Y., Jang, S. G., & Ock, M. (2023). Qualitative research in healthcare:
Necessity and Characteristics. Journal of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, 56(1),
12. https://doi.org/10.3961/JPMPH.22.451
Sano, Y., Mammen, S., & Houghten, M. (2021). Well-being and stability among low-income
families: A 10-Year review of research. Journal of Family and Economic Issues,
42(Suppl 1), 107. https://doi.org/10.1007/S10834-020-09715-7
Schickedanz, A., Szilagyi, P. G., & Dreyer, B. (2021). Child poverty and health in the United
States: Introduction and Executive Summary. Academic Pediatrics, 21(8S), S81–S85.
17
https://doi.org/10.1016/J.ACAP.2021.09.003
1
Exploring the Socio-Ecological Dynamics of High-Quality Childcare Services and Their
Impact on Low-Income Families
Chapter 1
Chantelle Bonds
Northcentral University
DIS-9901A v3: Components of the Dissertation
Dr. Melodi Guilbault
December 10, 2023
2
Table of Contents
Chapter 1 ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 3
Relevance and Importance of the Research Topic ………………………………………………………… 5
Background: Topic research and its practical and theoretical significance ………………………. 6
Statement of the Problem ……………………………………………………………………………………………… 7
Purpose of the Study ……………………………………………………………………………………………………. 9
Introduction to the Framework ……………………………………………………………………………………. 11
Key Concepts and Relations ……………………………………………………………………………………. 11
Relevant to the Studies……………………………………………………………………………………………. 12
Guiding the Research Decisions ………………………………………………………………………………. 12
Integration of Multiple Frameworks …………………………………………………………………………. 13
Introduction to Research Methodology and Design ……………………………………………………….. 13
Qualitative Research Questions …………………………………………………………………………………… 14
Summary ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 15
References ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 16
3
Chapter 1
In the intricate weave of societal advancement, the provision of high-quality childcare
services emerges as a pivotal determinant, exerting far-reaching influence on the fabric of
individual families and the broader socio-economic milieu. The quality of care for a child
determines their mental and physical development, which influences their future. The complex
relationship between childcare quality and family outcomes demands extensive research to
understand how they affect each other. Some studies indicate that the family outcome is
dependent on the quality care of a child, while at the same time, the quality care of a child is
dependent on the family’s income (Cuartas, 2022; Sano et al., 2021). It implies that the two
elements, childcare and family outcomes, are interlinked. Through this study, we seek to
understand their relationship by examining the socio-ecological contexts, theoretical foundations,
key concepts, and notions around the subject of study. Therefore, the study will unravel the
mystery and complexity of childcare quality and its impact on the lives of low-income families.
For instance, Naumann (2022) asserts that quality childcare can lead to benefits like gender
equality in society. Therefore, there is a clear indication that through the services of good
childcare, there is support for the parents, especially in engaging in employment that is gainful to
boost families from economic insecurities. It means that they can justify the so-called “doubt
shift” that the mothers have to cope with, hence resulting in better health in children and parents.
Additionally, the children receiving services of quality childcare end up developing learning and
social skills at a tender age. Moreover, such skills aid the children in building up and maintaining
a good rapport with the parents, other children, and adults.
The cascading effects of high-quality childcare transcend conventional economic
dimensions, reaching into the educational trajectories and societal
