CPP Eligibility Factor - Unmarried, Teenaged Parents

Clarification of Eligibility Factor

Either parent of the child was less than eighteen years of age and unmarried at the time of the birth of the child. (C.R.S. 22-28-106 (1) (a.5) (V)).

How It May Be Documented

• A family interview reveals parents were less than 18 and unmarried
• As documented by the application
• Birth certificate verification (a birth certificate is not required to be on file in order for a child to receive CPP funding)
• DHS or other agency reports

Significance of Factor in regards to School Readiness

• Evidence suggests numerous negative developmental consequences associated with teenage pregnancy, for both teen parents and their children. These consequences include reduced educational attainment, greater financial hardship, and less stable marriage patterns for the teen parent. At the child level, poorer health, educational and behavioral outcomes have been noted.
• Children of teenage mothers are generally found to have lower IQ scores and more school adjustment problems. Research also highlights the social-emotional impact of teenage parenthood. Children born to teenage mothers often exhibit greater overactivity, hostility, resistive behavior, and lack of impulse control.
• The role of support networks and other interpersonal resources, including but not limited to a spouse, is important as well. Family structure and access to other adults can mitigate the effects associated with teenage childbearing.

Additional Resources:

• Supporting Pregnant and Parenting Teens
• Expectant and parenting young families

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