Over time, paternity leave has become more common, thankfully. Studies have shown that when fathers are on leave to help care for their newborn child, it benefits the entire family. It also works in favor of the employer permitting the time off. Fathers who are considering paternity leave should fully embrace it because they will see positive results as their child grows and thrives.
Great for the Father and Family
Taking paternity leave or parental leave for a child strengthens the bond the father will experience with their child. The first stages of life are most important in creating those connections. According to Liza Mundy in the article, “The Daddy Track,” playing an equal role in the difficult first few weeks with a newborn will help fathers stay more active as the child grows. This creates a more dynamic flow with parenting responsibilities. Also, being there as extra support for the spouse won’t create kinks in the relationship because mother and father are together, trying to make sense of things. Overall, every father who is able to should take paternity leave. As the child grows day-to-day, the father and child will continue to invigorate their relationship which started from those first few weeks.
Beneficial for the Employer
Not only is paternity leave a good choice for the father, the employer benefits as well. Being on leave won’t cause stress for the father, resulting in more productive and high quality work as opposed to rushed abd hurried work. When the father returns from his leave, he will feel more confident and satisfaction. He will be more content with himself as well as the efforts he made while at home, with his child.
According to FindLaw, “The federal Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) covers about half of American workers and guarantees 12 weeks of unpaid leave. A handful of states also have laws requiring paid leave. In 2004, California became the first state to require paid paternity and maternity leave for all employees. California’s Paid Family Leave Insurance program covers part-time workers and employees of small businesses and allows workers to collect 55% of their earnings, up to a maximum amount, while on leave. Currently, New Jersey, Rhode Island and the District of Columbia also offer paid leave for fathers.”
At NurXur, we offer sessions focusing on all aspects related to fatherhood. Our Expert Coaches who conduct such sessions are credentialed and share years of experience as fathers.
