How Paternity Leave Works

Most fathers aren’t aware that they’re allowed to take paternity leave from work when their child is being born. This means that they can take a period of time off to enjoy the new baby and to help the baby’s mother get accustomed to having a new child in the house.

While the US doesn’t provide paid paternity leave, employers are required to offer this leave to their employees under the Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA.) In addition to offering a certain period of time (usually a few weeks) off, employers are required to provide the father with his same position, benefits, and pay when he returns.

Some countries do offer paid leave, but these are mostly Asian countries. The time allowed for the father to be off work depends and varies from country to country. For instance, many Asian countries allow several weeks off while countries like Cambodia only offer one to two days. It’s important to spend some time looking up the law in your country so that you can be prepared when the time comes. Also, give your employer notice that you’ll be taking paternity leave around the time that your baby is born, and let the employer know the due date. It’s important to take some time to spend with your baby and your significant other when the time comes, and paternity leave allows you to do that.

Dads: Taking Paternity Leave When Baby is Due

Mothers often take maternity leave just before they’re expected to give birth. Maternity leave gives mothers the chance to recover from birth, and enjoy their brand new babies before they have to return to work. Most people aren’t aware that employers are required by law to give expectant fathers paternity leave.

Paternity leave is outlined in the Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA.) While employers aren’t required to pay expectant fathers any money during their leave, they are required to allow the father to return to his original position. The father must also retain his original rate of pay, bonuses, benefits, and anything else that went with his job before he took paternity leave.

Paternity leave is a wonderful chance for fathers to help their wives or girlfriends with the brand new baby, and to form a special bond with their child. From waking up in the middle of the night for a feeding to helping Mom get the house in order, paternity leave gives fathers the perfect opportunity to really be there for their families. It’s important that you speak to your employer and let him or her know the expected due date. Also, let them know if you plan on taking paternity leave.

By keeping your employer informed, you can let them know that you are aware that they must offer paternity leave, and that you fully intend on taking that paternity leave. If you’re refused, you may have the right to seek compensation from your employer.