Childcare Voucher: A Qualitative/Pilot Study, Exploring the Experiences of Expectant and Parenting Teenage Mothers in Washington, District of Columbia (DC)

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study is to use human-centered design and journey mapping to explore the experience of Expectant and Parenting Teens in the District of Columbia (DC) in accessing childcare while attending school and/or seeking employment. Methods: In-depth interviews were conducted with 20 young mothers who had experienced teenage pregnancy and 10 providers assisting young parents in accessing support services, including childcare. Journey map interview guide (Table 1) was used for this interview. Interviews were audio recorded and transcribed verbatim to ensure that the participants’ statements were maintained in the transcripts. A thematic analysis was used to examine data and themes arising from the interviews. Open and axial coding was used to code the interview transcripts and organize them into categories and themes following an inductive and deductive approach. Results: The design team conducted 30 deep-dive interviews with 20 young parents (ages 18 - 25) and 10 providers assisting young parents in accessing support services, including childcare. The young parents interviewed were majority Black (66%) and Hispanic (19%), and largely live in wards 7 (33%) and 8 (28%). Their children’s average age was 4 years (range 2 months -8 years). Discussion: Three main themes and categories were identified as (1) Motivation to finish high school and find employment, (2) Challenges of accessing childcare voucher and quality childcare (3) Support staff (school councilors) experience.