This week, NBC Education Nation’s Parent Toolkit released the results from a “State of Parenting” survey they conducted in partnership with Pearson and Princeton Survey Research Associates International (PSRAI). Eight hundred and three American primary caregivers, parents and guardians of children ages 3-18 were interviewed by phone in English and Spanish last Fall. The results provide insight into what these surveyed parents think about education and what they value most for their children now and in the future. Particularly interesting results included that a majority of the participants ranked social and communication skills as the most important for their children’s development.

Some of the key findings are listed below but it is also well worth going to check out the full report illustrated with easy to read graphics on their site.

Key findings…

Parent surveyed confirmed that more than ever, they need a variety of skills and talents to effectively balance the demands of their own lives and the challenges of raising well-adjusted children. Slightly less than half said they need skills in patience and understanding most. One third said they need support in setting rules and guidelines in family life. And 17% expressed a desire to get involved in their children’s education.

When parents were asked which skill they think is most important for children to develop, 54% said good social and communication skills. Almost a third said grades were most important. But only 9% said an understanding of technology was most important. And a small percent listed specific qualities such as moral values, respect, motivation, drive and focus.

Nearly four in five parents said their family has dinner at home together most days of the week.

Respondents were divided in how satisfied they were with their own involvement in their children’s education. Over half said they are satisfied with their involvement but 47% wish they could do more.

Over half of parents say they spend more time with their children than their own parents did with them.

You can learn more about this new study by visiting the Parent Toolkit site.  And you can access the Spanish report.