Why Researchers Choose Child Care in Practice for High-Impact Publications
Child Care in Practice stands as a leading peer-reviewed journal dedicated to advancing knowledge in child care, youth programs, and related social services. Published by Taylor & Francis, it provides a vital forum for practitioners, policymakers, and academics to share evidence-based insights that influence real-world practices. Established in 1995, the journal has grown into an essential resource for professionals addressing the complexities of child welfare, family support, and youth development across the United Kingdom and internationally.
The journal's scope encompasses interdisciplinary research, including social work interventions, policy analysis, and innovative program evaluations. Researchers value its rigorous peer-review process, which ensures high-quality publications that contribute to the field. With an impact factor of 1.917 (2022 Clarivate Journal Citation Reports), Child Care in Practice offers substantial visibility, attracting citations from global scholars. Its hybrid open access model allows authors to reach wider audiences while maintaining affordability for traditional subscriptions.
Key strengths include a focus on practical applications, making it ideal for studies that bridge theory and practice. The editorial team, led by experts in child care, prioritizes diverse perspectives, including those from underrepresented regions. Metrics like a CiteScore of 2.8 (Scopus) underscore its influence in social sciences. For those in child care and youth programs, publishing here enhances career profiles and informs policy decisions.
Whether exploring trauma-informed care or community-based youth initiatives, Child Care in Practice supports submissions that drive change. To elevate your research impact, consider submitting your next manuscript. Researchers can also explore academic jobs in child welfare or check the academic calendar for upcoming conferences. For faculty insights, visit Rate My Professor.
Overview & History
Child Care in Practice was launched in 1995 by Taylor & Francis to address the evolving needs of child care professionals in the UK. Initially focused on Northern Ireland's child welfare systems, it quickly expanded to cover international perspectives on child protection, fostering, and adoption. Over nearly three decades, the journal has published over 1,000 articles, evolving with societal shifts like digital safeguarding and inclusive youth programs.
Its mission remains rooted in promoting best practices through empirical research and case studies. The journal's UK base ensures a strong emphasis on policy-relevant content, while welcoming contributions from global authors. This historical commitment to accessibility and relevance has solidified its reputation in social sciences.
Scope and Disciplines Covered
| Discipline | Description |
|---|---|
| Social Work | Interventions for child welfare and family support. |
| Child Welfare | Policies on protection, fostering, and adoption. |
| Family Studies | Family dynamics and support systems. |
| Youth Services | Programs for adolescent development and mental health. |
| Psychology | Trauma and resilience in young populations. |
These disciplines highlight the journal's broad yet focused approach, encouraging submissions that integrate multiple fields for comprehensive insights.
Key Journal Metrics
| Metric | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Impact Factor | 1.917 | Clarivate JCR 2022 |
| CiteScore | 2.8 | Scopus 2023 |
| SJR | 0.45 | Scimago 2023 |
| h-Index | 28 | Scopus |
| Acceptance Rate | Not publicly disclosed | - |
These metrics demonstrate the journal's solid standing, with steady growth in citations reflecting its relevance.
Indexing and Abstracting
Child Care in Practice is indexed in major databases, ensuring discoverability. It appears in Scopus, Web of Science (Social Sciences Citation Index), PsycINFO, and Social Care Online. For more, visit the official journal homepage or Scopus. This coverage amplifies research reach for authors in child care fields.
Publication Model and Fees
As a hybrid journal, Child Care in Practice offers traditional subscription access alongside open access options. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for gold open access is approximately £2,950 (about $3,750 USD), waivable for certain regions. No fees for non-OA submissions. This model balances accessibility with author choice, supporting global participation.
Submission Process and Guidelines
Manuscripts are submitted via the Taylor & Francis online portal at ScholarOne. Guidelines require 6,000-8,000 words, APA style, and ethical declarations. Initial review takes 4-6 weeks, followed by peer feedback. Authors should emphasize practical implications. For career advancement, pair your submission with exploring tenure-track positions in social work.
Editorial Board Highlights
The board features experts like Editor-in-Chief Prof. Robbie Gilligan (Trinity College Dublin), specializing in child protection. Other members include international scholars in youth policy and family therapy, ensuring diverse oversight. Their expertise guides the journal's high standards.
Why Publish in Child Care in Practice?
Publishing here offers targeted exposure to child care practitioners and policymakers. With UK roots and global scope, it fosters collaborations. The journal's metrics boost CVs, aiding postdoc positions. Its emphasis on actionable research makes it a top choice for impactful work.
Comparison with Similar Journals
| Journal | Impact Factor | Focus | Publisher |
|---|---|---|---|
| Child Abuse & Neglect | 3.8 | Abuse prevention | Elsevier |
| Children and Youth Services Review | 2.5 | Youth programs | Elsevier |
| British Journal of Social Work | 2.3 | Social work policy | Oxford |
| Child & Family Social Work | 1.9 | Family interventions | Wiley |
Child Care in Practice excels in practical UK-focused content, differentiating it from broader peers.
Researcher Tips for Successful Submission
- Align with scope: Highlight practice implications.
- Check guidelines: Use clear, evidence-based language.
- Seek feedback: Pre-submission reviews improve chances.
- Consider OA: For wider dissemination.
- Network: Attend events via academic calendar.
These strategies, combined with the journal's supportive process, maximize success. Explore higher ed jobs or faculty recruitment to advance your career post-publication.