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Latchkey Kids

"Latchkey Kid" is a term that came into existence during World War II. It was used to describe the large number of youth who were left without direct adult supervision. During this period of time, most Americans were involved in the war effort. Many fathers were in military service and many mothers went to work outside of the home to support their families and help our country win the war. As a result, there were fewer adults available to watch younger children. Is this still a problem in society today?

For twenty years following the end of the war, America experienced a period of great economic growth. Jobs were abundant and wages were good. Fathers could financially support their families and mothers usually stayed at home with their children. The phrase "latchkey kid" was seldom used during this period. But for the past twenty years, however, the phrase has been born again. The number of children left without supervision is now increasing with every year. Family i...

Posted by: Joel Chibota

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