By Neil Resto
Aerospace Valley, California
The price of housing can have a significant impact on children's and young adults' achievement in several ways. One of the main ways is through housing affordability, which can affect access to quality education and resources that support academic success.
When housing prices are high, families may struggle to afford quality housing in neighborhoods with good schools and other educational resources. This can lead to children attending lower-performing schools, which can have a negative impact on their academic achievement.
In addition to housing affordability, housing instability can also have a significant impact on children's and young adults' achievement. When families are forced to move frequently due to high housing costs or other reasons, children may have to change schools frequently, which can disrupt their education and affect their academic performance.
Moreover, when families are forced to live in overcrowded or substandard housing due to high housing costs, children may face health and safety risks that can impact their academic achievement. For example, exposure to lead or other environmental hazards can have a long-term impact on cognitive development and academic performance.
Furthermore, high housing costs can lead to stress and financial strain for families, which can also impact children's academic achievement. Studies have shown that children from families experiencing financial strain are more likely to experience emotional and behavioral problems that can affect their academic performance.
In conclusion, the price of housing can have a significant impact on children's and young adults' achievement, particularly through its effects on housing affordability, instability, and quality. Policymakers and advocates should prioritize strategies to increase access to quality, affordable housing in neighborhoods with good schools and other educational resources, as well as policies that promote stability and safety in housing.