The Parental Leave Playbook

Appendix ThreeAn Emerging Working Parent Support Ecosystem

ec·o·sys·tem

/ˈēkōˌsistəm/

1. a group of interconnected elements formed by the interaction of a community with their environment: “the emerging parental leave ecosystem is at an exciting time in its development.”

IT'S AN EXCITING time in the parental leave space because so many people are rising up to meet the needs of working parents. I think of it as an emerging working parent support ecosystem. This appendix provides an overview of what is quickly evolving to support you and the parents who come after you, as well as a snapshot of the key players at this moment in time.

Because it's an emerging ecosystem with much yet to be done, there is overlap among elements as people and organizations influence one another. For ease and brevity, I've consolidated elements wherever possible, but keep in mind that each of these categories carry many subcategories within them.

To the extent you can, draw on help from this system during your transition. If you are inspired to lend your voice to any of these efforts please reach out to them or to me—I am happy to connect you with or point you toward an organization that matches your interests.

Please visit www.cplleadership.com/playbook for updates and expansions of this ecosystem over time.

Today we have never been closer to the promised land for new parents in the United States, even if the impact of the coronavirus pandemic makes it feel further away than ever. Since ...