Seventy percent of American families are headed by either two working parents or a single working parent. Work brings enormous benefits; but most working parents also face difficult trade-offs. The New America Foundation examined the effects of current working conditions on families and found that the lack of flexibility -- in paid leave, telecommuting or nontraditional hours -- has been linked to depression in women. Negative maternal attitudes tend to result in more negative behaviors among kids. Children with parents who works nights or evenings or who lack paid time off typically have lower reading and math test scores. To help keep workers and children healthy and productive, the foundation recommends expanding access to quality child care and adopting policies to encourage businesses to provide more flexible work arrangements and paid leave options. States should also consider altering the school day and school year calendar to meet the needs of parents, without sacrificing children's education.

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