AbstractCohesive families and stimulating and caring environments promoting attachment to caregivers is fundamental for a child's physical and psychosocial growth and development. Parental care, supporting early years development, presupposes the presence and involvement of parents in children's daily life with activities that include breastfeeding, playing, reading and storytelling. However, parents have to balance their child's well‐being against employment, career progression and gender equality. Universally accessible and equitably available parental leave addresses this challenge.ConclusionDistinct from compulsory maternity leave, leave at full or nearly full pay for both parents benefits not only families but also societal well‐being and prosperity.