Final answer:
In a study of reading and math abilities in third- and fifth-grade children, high-scoring children often had supportive families, quality preschool programs, and enriching curriculums, which underscore the influence of socioeconomic factors on academic success. Parenting styles and economic disparities were significant contributing factors to the observed differences in children's educational outcomes. The research indicates the importance of early childhood education and socioeconomic support to help bridge the achievement gap.
Step-by-step explanation:
In one study of reading and math ability in third- and fifth-grade children, it was found that high-scoring children usually had families, preschool programs, and first-grade curriculum that contributed to their success. Children from more affluent families often receive early educational advantages such as increased access to books, exposure to a wider vocabulary, and more educational toys and resources. This often leads to higher achievement in school, as evidenced by higher test scores and a greater likelihood of future academic and professional success. In contrast, children from lower-income families may face a variety of challenges that can impact their academic outcomes, such as limited resources, less parental engagement in educational activities, and additional stressors related to their socioeconomic status.Research has shown that parenting styles also differ significantly between socioeconomic groups. For example, parents from higher-income families are more likely to use what sociologist Annette Lareau calls an "active fostering" approach, which includes nurturing a child's talents and skills, engaging in analytical conversation, and teaching them to question and negotiate with authority.
This contrasts with the "accomplishment of natural growth" style more common in lower-income households, which espouses independent development with less direct intervention and guidance. Such differences in early exposure and parenting styles can have a long-lasting impact on a child's reading and math abilities, according to multiple studies.Additionally, the presence of economic disparities and social challenges can influence educational outcomes. For children living in poverty, daily stress can negatively affect brain development, which might lead to lower test scores. Therefore, addressing these disparities and providing equitable early childhood educational opportunities are essential steps toward closing the achievement gap between children from different socioeconomic backgrounds.