The Impact of Labor Policies on the Health of Young Children in the Context of Economic Globalization

Abstract

Globalization has transformed the workplace at the same time that increasing numbers of children live in families in which all adults work for pay outside the home. Extensive research evidence demonstrates the importance of parental involvement in the early years of a child's life. Yet, parents caring for young children may face challenges in fulfilling both work and family responsibilities under current labor force conditions. In this article, we review the evidence on the importance of parental care for meeting young children's routine care needs, preventive health care needs, and curative medical treatment requirements. We examine the evidence regarding the impact of four policies in particular on young children's health and development: parental leave, breastfeeding breaks, early childhood care and education, and leave for children's health needs. Last, we examine the availability of these policies worldwide and discuss the potential economic implications.

Socioeconomic status and breastfeeding in China: an analysis of data from a longitudinal nationwide household survey

“…Lack of paid paternity leave and emotional support for their partner may be the reasons for this. In China, there was no paid paternity leave for fathers before 2017 [48]. Additionally, fathers with high occupational status may be busier and seldom provide emotional support for their partner.…”

Grandparenting in the United States

“…Despite growing need, neither the U.S. welfare state nor U.S. employers have responded to the needs of young working families ( Chesley & Moen, 2006 ; Folbre, 2012 ; Harrington Meyer & Herd, 2007 ; Heymann, Earle, & McNeill, 2013 ). Compared to most European nations, the U.S. welfare state provides little support for working families.…”

Why Do Americans Have Shorter Life Expectancy and Worse Health Than Do People in Other High-Income Countries?

“…Early childhood interventions appear to bring important health benefits, especially among disadvantaged children (37, 44). Studies indicate that early education programmes do not only improve educational outcomes but also lead to higher immunizations and height-for-age, and reduce child mortality at ages five to nine(37, 44).…”

“…Studies indicate that early education programmes do not only improve educational outcomes but also lead to higher immunizations and height-for-age, and reduce child mortality at ages five to nine(37, 44). More comprehensive childcare and early education programmes for children in Europe may thus partly contribute to their better health compared to that of American children.…”