NCJ Number
130559
Journal
Protecting Children Volume: 7 Issue: 4 Dated: (Winter 1990-1991) Pages: 6-8
Date Published
1991
Length
3 pages
Annotation
Hispanic children need both an enriching environment and basic supports if they are to flourish.
Abstract
Two facts underscore the needs of Hispanic families and children: (1) the median age of 25 is 7 years younger than that of non-Hispanics; and (2) Hispanic children are 3 times as likely to be poor as non-Hispanic children. The escalation of Hispanic family poverty during the past ten years has had a significant impact on Hispanic children. The poverty rate of Hispanic children grew faster than that of white or black children or than that of Hispanic adults. By the end of the decade, almost half of all poor Hispanics were children under 18 years of age. Poor Hispanic children are especially vulnerable to increased social and economic problems because of their likelihood of growing up without adequate supports. Child poverty has been associated with unsuccessful school experiences, health problems, early child bearing, and adult poverty. Goals to improve this situation include designing programs to provide these children with experiences and supports that will promote their successful transition to adulthood. 7 references