Out-of-home childcare has become more and more common with the reality of both parents working to cover household expenses. As a result, parents’ may have wondered whether their child is developing a healthy attachment to multiple caregivers.

Researchers at Utah State University posed a question, whether “multiple caregivers have positive impact on children’s prosocial behavior”. The preliminary findings suggest that multiple caregivers may have a relational impact on children’s prosocial development. However, further research needs to be conducted to tease out the specific relationship between secondary caregivers and feeling confident enough to demonstrate prosocial behaviors. (Carter, Almaraz, and Talley, 2014).

Many families turn to out-of-home childcare. It’s encouraging to learn that secondary attachments could have a positive impact on your child’s growth and development.

Carter, Julie R., Almaraz, Jair., and Talley, Susan.  “Multiple Attachment Relationships: More Caregivers May Mean More Confidence to Behave Prosocially” (2014).  Research On Capitol Hill 2014.  Research on the Hill (Salt Lake City). Paper 11.

Blog author: Tammy Lam