When businesses support working parents, they’re not just boosting their bottom line – they’re helping prevent child abuse and neglect. In South Dakota, 72.5% of all children under age six have all available parents in the workforce, making family-friendly workplace policies crucial for our state’s families.
Research shows that workplace policies like flexible scheduling, paid family leave, and childcare assistance significantly reduce major risk factors for child maltreatment by decreasing parental stress and providing essential economic stability. When parents have the flexibility to attend school events, care for sick children, or work from home when appropriate, it strengthens family bonds and creates more nurturing environments. Access to quality childcare and living wages helps ensure families can meet basic needs without the overwhelming stress that can lead to crisis.
Prevention is far better – and far less costly – than intervention after abuse occurs. Studies show that every dollar invested in prevention can save up to seven dollars in future costs related to child welfare services, healthcare, and criminal justice. By creating supportive work environments, businesses play a crucial role in building the safe, stable, nurturing relationships children need to thrive. These investments in families today help develop healthier communities and a stronger workforce for tomorrow.
The Center for the Prevention of Child Maltreatment’s “Businesses for Babies” campaign highlights South Dakota companies that have adopted family-friendly policies. By showcasing businesses that prioritize family well-being through flexible schedules, parental leave, and childcare support, the campaign aims to inspire more companies to implement similar policies. Together, we can create a business culture that strengthens families and protects our most vulnerable citizens – our children.
Christina Young has been an influential figure in the child welfare field for over a decade, dedicating her career to the well-being of children and families. She directed an in-home family services program covering 30 western counties in Iowa, demonstrating her commitment to community-based support. Christina has a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a master’s in human services administration. Follow The Prairie Doc® at www.prairiedoc.org, Facebook, Instagram, Youtube and Threads. Prairie Doc Programming includes On Call with the Prairie Doc®, a medical Q&A show (streaming Thursday’s on Facebook), 2 podcasts, and a Radio program (on SDPB), providing health information based on science, built on trust.
