“It’s as Backawards as Can Be”: Things in American Culture That Make No Sense to the Rest of the World

The United States is one of only a handful of developed countries that does not require employers to offer paid parental leave. If you are lucky enough to have an employer that offers paid maternity leave, it’s usually only six weeks long. As any new parent knows, you’re just starting to emerge from the newborn haze at the six-week mark!

In Canada, on the other hand, the minimum mandated maternity leave is 15 weeks. Although that’s still a short amount of time, it’s way better than a measly six weeks. The person who shared this gripe is thankful that they live in Canada for this very reason, and we don’t blame them. Going back to work, paying for daycare, and missing time with your baby are all stressors.