THE BIGGEST SINGLE FACTOR IS MOM

We see a near blizzard of international test score comparisons that suggest U.S. performance suffers because of our high rates of poverty.  The contention is that our comparatively high rates of countrywide poverty mean that more of our children are denied quality schooling and instruction.  Yes that happens systemically without a doubt.  However, there are those who say the difference between poor kids who thrive in school and succeed in life and those who fail either to thrive or succeed has more to do with parental influence in the child’s early years than with money.  There is sound research to support this claim.

The biggest single factor is MOM.  All too often, in the demographic we are talking about, dads are physical or psychological absentees.  On the other hand, moms, and other female caregivers like grandma, typically reduce stress and provide caring emotional anchors for their children, setting the stage for them to react to the crises of everyday life constructively and positively.  As the primary caregiver, the mother creates preconditions for her children to develop a “locus of control”, a stockpile of self worth, motivation and drive, grit, curiosity and many other attributes we associate with the term character.

Because of moms, kids can cope with many of the worst effects of poverty.  This alone outweighs all of the early “academic” preparation a parent gives to the child either before they are developmentally ready for it or before they enter school.  The effects of a de-stressed home environment last long into formal schooling. Perceptive teachers notice it, and nurture it.

On Mothers Day, let’s celebrate the research that affirms the vital importance of moms and grandmoms to the character and learning motivation of children -- all children, but especially the ones who struggle with the challenges of economic denial in their everyday lives.  

Jeffrey M. Bowen

May 12, 2013