How young mothers rely on kin networks and formal childcare to avoid becoming NEET in the Netherlands

This article explores the relationship between motherhood and the probability for young mothers of becoming NEET (not in employment, education, or training) around childbirth. The findings reveal that cohabiting or married young mothers are less likely to become NEET, and that economic activity and relative income of both mothers and partners play a crucial role in reducing NEET likelihood. Having grandparents nearby also decreases NEET likelihood, while economically inactive parents increase it. The study also found that formal and informal childcare sources interact, with an increase in one decreasing the importance of the other. Overall, kin support and formal childcare are key resources for young mothers in the Netherlands to balance work and family responsibilities and avoid NEET status.

Written by Alexander Dicks, Mark Levels, Rolf van der Velden, Melinda C. Mills