Paid Parental Leave! There is soooo much discussion about Paid Parental Leave in this country. This is an interesting article about what happens in Sweden.
http://www.smh.com.au/national/paid-parental-leave-how-swedish-mums-and-dads-do-it-20140319-352gj.html
All discussions in the media seem to be missing the point totally. They are so focused on the economics of this plan.
This is the MOST IMPORTANT investment in our country’s future. I know it is difficult in politics today to think ‘long term’, but this discussion should never be about ‘the dollar’!
Most pregnancies are not planned, well certainly not precisely, and there are many decisions to be made in those early weeks of a pregnancy, and the parenting issue is often not the focus BUT parenting begins at conception! We know from many research studies the importance of connecting with your baby in utero, understanding his development in utero, nurturing his development and education in utero. Come and do our Inside Birth classes and you will learn all about this!
A couple who are pregnant have accepted the responsibility of parenting – from conception to the end of your life. Parenting does not stop when the children go to school or leave home, but very exciting changes happen in your parenting journey. I am the parent of 2 adult sons and 1 10yr old grandson. My mothering has not stopped, it has just changed. It is an exciting journey of learning and discovery and I feel so privileged to be a Mum/grandmum.
The Government and the country also has a responsibility to assist in the growing/ nurturing and education of a new generation. Even those who don’t have children, and have no intention of having in the future, must surely accept the importance of handing over to a well educated, emotionally and socially adept and healthy next generation. Those who have the capacity to think long term for our country – GET IT! and so it is very frustrating when so-called ‘experts’ are discussing this in the media, all of whom, are concerned about the cost of this program and are missing the point!
Why does Sweden GET IT and Australia doesn’t? Of course budgets have to be balanced in their commitment of financial support to disadvantaged etc. but I encourage everyone to get their head out of the sand and think outside the square. We all have a responsibility to grow and support the next generation and by supporting and honouring the important parenting role, especially in the first 6 mths. is a very good place to start.
Further reading: “windows to the womb” by Dr. David Chamberlain and Michel Odent’s work, the French Obstetrician who has been a research leader in the importance of growing, birthing and parenting continuum.
Love to hear your comments
