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Rachel Jones Rachel Jones reports on education, social policy, and welfare reform issues at NPR. She has also covered children’s health and development, as well as well as racial disparities in health care.
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Rachel Jones

Wednesday

Morning Edition

Daycare Study Revisited

Two years ago, a large, government-funded study of daycare garnered extensive attention and triggered worry among parents. The study's preliminary results suggested that children cared for outside of the home are more likely to exhibit aggressive and defiant behaviors. That study's results are now being published for the first time, prompting other researchers to weigh in on the question: Is day care inherently bad for children? NPR's Rachel Jones reports.

Daycare Study Revisited

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Monday

Science

Study: Absent Dads Impact Daughters' Sexual Behavior

A new study reinforces the notion that a father's absence during his daughter's childhood can have a negative impact on the girl's sexual behavior. But the research challenges previous studies suggesting poverty is the main reason such girls are at a higher risk for early sexual activity and pregnancy. NPR's Rachel Jones reports.

Study: Absent Dads Impact Daughters' Sexual Behavior

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Friday

Science

A New Slant on Child Backpack Injuries

Media reports have highlighted a potential danger for children who carry overstuffed backpacks around, citing a rash of back injuries. One study shows a greater danger from tripping over the cumbersome carry-alls. But there's more to the story. NPR's Rachel Jones reports.

A New Slant on Child Backpack Injuries

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Tuesday

Science

Survey Notes Link Between Holidays, Teen Depression

A New York University survey says some teenagers may be more susceptible to depression during the holidays. Mental health researchers estimate that nine million children experience significant depression sometime during their teens. The good news is that "talk therapy" can help. NPR's Rachel Jones reports.

Survey Notes Link Between Holidays, Teen Depression

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Sunday