We build a bridge to economic security through research, policy, and media work. Balancing the demands of family and work is increasingly difficult for many Americans. A Changing Economy Changes in our economy over the past 20 years have made it harder for people to earn a living and care for their families. The typical married couple with children worked six more fulltime weeks in 1997 than in 1989, just to maintain its 1989 standard of living. We also know that the well-being of children is based upon the care and teaching they receive from their parents.
Children thrive from parental participation and presence.
The American Academy of Pediatrics notes that an infant s physical, cognitive and social development depends on establishing a strong attachment to parents or a primary caregiver. Older children, spouses, and aging parents also need care during illness or medical emergencies. More workers are finding themselves in the sandwich generation. And for many middle class and low income workers today, taking leave without some income support is just not possible. Family leave laws have been good for business.