Targeted or Universal Coverage? Assessing Heterogeneity in the Effects of Universal Childcare

Michael J. Kottelenberg and Steven Lehrer ()

No 22126, NBER Working Papers from National Bureau of Economic Research, Inc

Abstract: We extend earlier research evaluating the Quebec Family Policy by providing the first evidence on the distributional effects of universal child care on two specific developmental outcomes. Our analysis uncovers substantial policy relevant heterogeneity in the estimated effect of access to subsidized child care across two developmental score distributions for children from two-parent families. Whereas past research reported findings of negative effects on mothers and children from these families, igniting controversy, our estimates reveal a more nuanced image that formal child care can indeed boost developmental outcomes for children from some households: particularly disadvantaged single-parent households. In addition, we document significant heterogeneity that differs by child gender. We present suggestive evidence that the heterogeneity in policy effects that emerges across child gender and family type is consistent with differences in the home learning environments generated by parents behaviors that are previously present and are shaped by responses to the policy.

JEL-codes: C23 I28 J13 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2016-03
New Economics Papers: this item is included in nep-dem, nep-lab and nep-ure
Note: CH PE
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Citations: View citations in EconPapers (8)

Published as Michael J. Kottelenberg & Steven F. Lehrer, 2017. "Targeted or Universal Coverage? Assessing Heterogeneity in the Effects of Universal Child Care," Journal of Labor Economics, University of Chicago Press, vol. 35(3), pages 609-653.

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