Family’s childbearing challenges during transition to preschool: a qualitative study

Abstract

Background: Time spent with children positively influences their behaviour and cognitive development, benefiting families as well. However, not all families, especially those in developmental transitions, can interact with their children equally. Objective: This study aimed to explore and describe the families’ childbearing challenges during the children´s transition to preschool. Method: Education and health professionals, paired with families with three-year-old children, participated in two focus groups. Semi-structured interviews were conducted, and content analysis followed Bardin's assumptions. Findings: Three categories emerged: "time to be a child," "time to be a family" (with subcategory "time for routine and roles"), and "time for external engagement" (e.g., childcare and health systems). Increased time commitments and managing children's demands were cited as primary challenges. Consistent information from external sources was deemed essential for family well-being. Conclusion: Childbearing during transition to preschool presents families time-related challenges, calling for family support tailored to address them.