Creating Opportunity for Families: A Two-Generational Approach.

This report discusses the challenges faced by low-income families and highlights the two-generation approach that aims to create opportunities for families by simultaneously equipping parents and kids with the tools they need to thrive while removing the obstacles in their way. The three components of the two-generation strategy are explained and include: provide parents with multiple pathways to get family-supporting jobs and achieve financial stability; ensure access to high-quality early childhood education and enriching elementary school experiences; and equip parents to better support their children socially and emotionally and to advocate for their kids’ education. Charts are included that compare the barriers facing low-income and middle/upper income families, the costs of raising a family, the financial stability of low income families with young children by State in 2012, and early development and child care concerns of low-income families in 2011/2012. Specific recommendations are then made and successful programs are highlighted. 44 references.