What Makes a Workplace Policy Family Forward?

Each policy recommended in this guide has a research base that shows positive business impact for employers and a positive impact on children’s health and well-being.

Each policy is described in detail throughout this section. Benefits to employers and to employee and child health and well-being are highlighted, along with examples of how employers have incorporated these practices into their workplace.

Paid Leave

For the purposes of this guide, we focus on paid leave only, as paid leave has more positive impacts on employers and employees versus unpaid leave. Types of leave included are parental leave (for birth, adoption or foster placement), sick and safe leave, and family and medical leave.

Flexible Work and Scheduling

Flexible work includes flextime, working from home or telecommuting, job sharing, part-time work, and predictable scheduling.

Child Care

Child care solutions include backup and emergency care, child care referrals, on-site child care, child care consortiums, and subsidized or reimbursed care.

Health Benefits and Flexible Spending Accounts

Health insurance, wellness benefits, and flexible spending accounts are featured here.

Accommodations and Support

This category includes support for pregnant and breastfeeding mothers and babies at work initiatives.