Sunday, February 1, 2009

The Benefits of Leave

I've been thinking lately about how fortunate I am that Tom is able to take an extended (paid) leave from work during the next two months. He got the time off through FMLA, but is able to be paid through the paid time off he accrued while working. Paid leave is so hard to come by, especially for dads, and I think it's a real shame. I don't know how I would be managing without Tom here. He's been wonderful. He takes Ronan in the morning after I feed him so I can get some more sleep, he's been cleaning the house, and doing everything else. And he's so cute to watch with Ronan!

I really wish we had a better leave system in this country for both moms and dads. I think it's so important for everyone to have a chance to bond and get used to the new situation. And while FLMA is a great step, it doesn't do much good if you aren't getting paid while on it. Who knows, maybe the issue will be addressed with the new administration we have. I'm not holding my breath though.

2 comments:

Donna said...

I think its great that you and your husband get at least a few months to bond with Ronan and for him to still be paid. Its just a shame its not longer, you'd think after all the studies that have been carried out that show the benefits of having both parents present in the first years that they would change the policies on leave.

Unknown said...

Denise and Tom:
Congrats...thanks for this great web site. I have really enjoyed keeping up with all of your new parent experiences (brings back some great memories). Carol and I went shopping for Ronan this weekend so we will get a couple of outfits in the mail tomorrow (I hope). Carol had a lot of fun clothes shopping for a new baby!

Keep up the great work!
Love,
Uncle Gary and Aunt Carol