When my oldest son was born in 2012 my husband was able to take 12 weeks of unpaid leave off, which contributed to the amazing and close relationship they have. Both my husband and I have chronic medical conditions, so he had an additional 4 weeks he could take off if needed when we got ill. When our second son was born, he was able to take 4 weeks off paid and 4 weeks off unpaid and keep 8 weeks for potential health emergencies. The leave was crucial in allowing me to breastfeed and allowing us to transition into life with two children. I wish all families could benefit from paid leave for bonding as well as medical conditions.
