Women who are caught in the middle of caregiving responsibilities just when their careers are at their peak are handling responsibilities in all aspects of their lives.
When I went into labour,I wasn’t cracking jokes in the delivery suite. But now,I recognise absurd mirth in the day,and in the expectations I held for how it would go.
Returning to work after taking years – or even decades – away? For some women,the benefits far outweigh the challenges.
For some parents,it’s not that they can’t afford to have more children,it’s that they simply don’t have the time to raise them.
Many parents are at the breaking point of stress,and some say parenting has become too hard. What can we do to bring the joy back?
Paying super on parental leave will add billions of dollars to the retirement funds of parent carers across the country. But it’s not enough.
The pre-election push,to benefit public servants,seeks to fix “outdated” entitlements disadvantaging all parents.
Having children can be a joy,but they don’t come cheap. They are also important to the economy.
Efforts from employers,government,and frank conversations between partners about super being a shared expense are still needed. But it’s a start.
Expensive gifts are a lovely way to show your love,but supporting their long-term financial independence is even better.