More than just time off: How to support parents during parental leave
Let’s shift the narrative around maternity and parental leave. The old one never fit, anyway. Parents aren’t “leaving” anything behind — they’re stepping into a new season of life: One that’s full of changes, challenges, and profound moments of growth. This transition is a critical time to ensure they have the support parents need to thrive, not just survive.
Whether it’s bonding with a newborn, recovering from childbirth, or adjusting to new family dynamics, this period demands more care, understanding, and compassion — which is what The Lactation Network is here for.
It’s time we stop treating parental leave as a luxury and start seeing it for what it really is: A human right. For bonding, healing, and ultimately, for building a stronger future — for families, for communities, and for society.
Why parental leave is a must-have
The first few months are crucial for a baby’s development, and research shows that when babies have time with their parents, it makes a huge difference — helping babies develop emotionally, cognitively, and physically. When parents are able to be fully present during this time, it helps build the foundation for stronger, healthier attachments and gives babies the best start in life.
But parental leave doesn’t just benefit the baby. For parents, especially those recovering from childbirth, time away from work is essential for healing. Longer parental leave, paid or unpaid, has been associated with better mental health. Without the adequate time and space to care for themselves, both physically and emotionally, the challenges of new parenthood can feel overwhelming.
This is what makes parental leave so significant — it’s not just about stepping away from work but, rather, stepping into the role of being there for your child and yourself during the delicate weeks after birth that allows for proper recovery and promotes long-term health and happiness. When families get the leave they need, they get the time and support from the community and employers to thrive, making it a critical investment in the future of both parent and child.
Ways to support parents on leave and returning from leave
When parents go on leave, they’re not stepping away from responsibilities. They’re experiencing a time of profound adjustment, growth, and dedication to caring for a new life. Parents need the time to bond, recover, and adjust to their new roles, which is why we need to step up and be there for them in a real, meaningful way.
Phrases like “Enjoy your time off!” or “You’ll be back to normal soon enough” may seem well-intentioned, but they often lack the empathy needed to acknowledge the profound reality of parental leave. These statements simplify an experience that is anything but simple. The idea of “normalcy” falls short because life after a child doesn’t revert to what it was before. It evolves into something entirely new and deeply personal.
Likewise, using “out of office” language for parental leave isn’t aligned with the purpose of this leave. Vacation implies rest and renewal, while leave focuses on recovery, caregiving, and navigating significant change.
Casual comments like these can make parents feel unseen, as though their experience is being reduced to a temporary disruption rather than acknowledged as a monumental shift. Instead, empathetic support involves reaching out with care and asking, “How are you really doing?” without any hidden agendas.
When it’s time to come back to work, it’s crucial for employers to offer flexibility, whether it’s part-time hours, remote options, or a gradual return. Accommodating breastfeeding parents by providing a supportive environment to pump — and flexibility in their schedule to do so — is also important.
At the end of the day, it’s about creating an environment/culture that sees parents as whole, valued people — not just employees.
Get the support you need before your leave
As a working parent, the best time to think about leave is before you’ve left! Start considering your postpartum needs during pregnancy, so you’re fully prepared when the time comes.
It’s critical that we recognize the vital role employers play in providing meaningful leave options by crafting clear, inclusive policies that address recovery, bonding time, and flexible transitions back to work. Employers also need to communicate these benefits openly, ensuring employees feel supported in using them without fear of judgment or repercussions.
To explore your leave options, review your company’s policies and talk with HR or your manager about available benefits. Research state and federal leave laws, like FMLA or paid family leave, to fully understand your rights. For tailored advice, consult healthcare providers or advocacy organizations to help you anticipate and plan for your postpartum needs effectively.
Planning ahead not only ensures a smoother transition but also gives you the support you need when you return to work. International Board Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLCs) are here to help guide you through this critical time, offering expert care and advice on everything from preparing for breastfeeding prenatally through the return to work and when you decide to wean one day. IBCLCs can provide resources and referrals to providers who can also support you as you learn how to balance work and family life.
We’re here for you, every step of the way. We work with your insurance to provide in-home, in-office, or telehealth visits with an IBCLC.
