Investing in child care to stimulate economic growth

In Kara Miller’s column discussing the wage gap and how mothers are more likely to receive calls about family issues than fathers, it is clear that employers have a lot to lose by not addressing this issue. Currently, there are only 71 workers for every 100 open jobs in the United States, according to the US Chamber of Commerce. The Bipartisan Policy Center has identified lack of child care and other caregiving responsibilities as the main reasons why adults aged 25 to 54 are not in the workforce.

For employers looking to stay competitive in their industries and attract top talent, it is crucial that they invest in career growth and retention strategies. They should also support flexibility and benefits like paid leave and child-care assistance, and cultivate an inclusive culture that values caregivers. By learning from the lessons that mothers are teaching us, we can rethink our workplaces so that both employees and employers can thrive.

In order to grow the economy, address current challenges, and set up future generations for success, it is vital that employers take inspiration from mothers and create a more supportive work environment for all. Miriam Rubin, co-founder of Listen to Your Mothers, emphasizes the importance of drawing on these lessons to build a better future.