Neighborhood Context and Parent Perspectives on Practical Considerations Related to Preschool Location

Abstract

ABSTRACT Research Findings: We examined the association between neighborhood median income, child race/ethnicity, and parental perspectives and practical considerations regarding preschool program location. We conducted a cross-sectional survey of parents in Boston, Massachusetts planning to enroll in preschool (N = 1171). Questions measured parental preferences regarding program location, number of care transitions, safety, and transportation. We used adjusted logistic regression models to calculate the association between these factors and race/ethnicity and zip code median household income. Compared to the second quartile, parents living in zip codes within the two highest quartiles of median neighborhood income were more likely to prefer preschool near home. Parents living in zip codes within the highest quartile were less likely to be willing to use school transportation. Compared to parents identifying their child’s race as white, parents of Asian, Black, and Hispanic children were more likely to prefer preschool near work and parents of Black children were less likely to prefer preschool near home. Practice or Policy: Neighborhood median income had a graded association with preference for preschool near home. Transportation and location preferences varied by neighborhood context and socio-demographic factors. These findings can inform efforts to address disparities in preschool enrollment, preschool program design, and family engagement.