Why Good Benefits Matter

Who wouldn't love to take a day off from work to curl up in front of Oprah when we feel a tickle in our throat? And what new mom wouldn't like more time to stare into her baby's big round eyes (and then take a much-needed nap)? But family-friendly policies like paid sick days and maternity leave aren't just luxuries that would make our lives more pleasant--they're essential, and they actually benefit all of us.

- Studies show that workers need a week of sick leave each year to take care of their own health needs, and moms needs paid time off to care for sick kids (and often ailing parents) too. Parents with paid sick days are more likely to take the time to provide preventive health care for their kids, and their involvement help kids recover more rapidly from illness and injury, which ultimately means fewer days off for the worker. sick employees actually reduce productivity, and workplaces with paid sick days experience lower job-turnover rates. read more...