The impact of parental absence on early childhood development in the context of Thailand

This analysis investigates the impact of parental absence on early childhood development in Thailand, using the Denver II screening tool, based on a study conducted in 2013–2014. Children aged 36 months and younger were included (n = 923). Results reveal that the crucial factor for delayed development in early childhood is the mother’s presence in the household. Children who were cared for by others were not at higher risk of delayed development as long as their mother was present, while the father’s absence did not make a difference. This study raises concern for the large number of children living separately from their mothers, and also raises questions about the long-term effects of parental migration for this generation of Thai children.