Study Shows Child Care Duties for Moms Equivalent of 2 Full-Time Jobs (WSN Spotlight)

The Women’s Solidarity Network’s spotlight this week is shining a light on child care responsibilities at home. A new study conducted by McMaster University indicates some Canadian mothers have taken on the equivalent of nearly two full-time jobs providing child care during the COVID-19 pandemic.

In April and June, McMaster researchers surveyed more than 4,000 stay-at-home and working parents regarding their child care responsibilities. The study found:

  • The average woman with children at home reported spending nearly 50 more hours per week on child care during the pandemic than did the average man.

  • Men reported an average of 33 hours of caregiving per week before the pandemic and 46 hours during the pandemic.

  • Women reported an average of 68 hours before COVID-19 hit Canada and 95 hours after.

  • Women in households with children report poorer mental health than men do.

Read the full study here.

IFPTEWomen's Solidarity Network, WSN, COVID-19