Supporting Parents and Early Childhood Professionals Lab

Impact

Funded Since: 2022 | Total Funding: $1.57 Million

Funding Sources: South Dakota Dept. of Social Services, Division of Child Care Services

Outcomes

The Supporting Parents and Early Childhood Professionals Lab generates evidence to improve the quality of early childhood care and support the well-being of parents and early childhood professionals. Findings from our research inform practical tools, Extension programs, professional development, and research-informed policies that strengthen caregiving practices and early childhood systems.

By partnering with families, educators, and community organizations, we aim to translate research into real-world solutions that improve child development, family well-being, and access to high-quality early childhood care.

Research Purpose

Our purpose is to generate, translate, and disseminate research that supports parents and early childhood professionals through practical tools, Extension programs, and research-informed policies.

More Information

Graduate students are active members of the lab community, engaging in research, mentorship, and professional development while contributing to ongoing projects.

Graduate Students: Vrushali Gadkari

Now Enrolling

The Lab is currently enrolling participants for a study to better understand parents’ experiences and decision-making related to their young children’s extracurricular activities.

Eligibility

We are looking for parents or legal guardians who are at least 18 years old, have at least one child between the ages of 4 and 8, fluent in English, and who meet at least one of the following criteria:

Have a child who is currently participating in at least one extracurricular activity (outside of preschool or school)
Have a child who stopped participating in an extracurricular activity within the past six month.

If you are interested in participating, please complete our brief eligibility screening survey here:

Complete Eligibility Survey

Participation Involves

If you are eligible, a member of the research team will contact you by email to schedule a virtual interview. Please note that not everyone who completes the screening survey will be selected to participate, as we are seeking parents with a variety of experiences and backgrounds.