FACTS AND FINDINGS    More than 70 organizations have successfully allowed babies in the workplace.    More than 1,000 babies have been successfully brought to work.    In the workplace , babies overwhelmingly tend to be mellow and highly content.  Within structured programs, a workplace environment contains keys to thriving, happy babies: parental closeness, social interaction, physical contact, highly-responsive care, and high rates of breastfeeding.    Happy babies in the workplace lower stress levels and create feelings of camaraderie and community among coworkers. Being around babies causes increased levels of the hormone oxytocin in both men and women, which results in feelings of tenderness and affection.    Responding immediately to an infant's cries and extensive physical contact are ideal for a baby's physical and psychological development and directly result in babies crying less.  Babies whose needs are met quickly and appropriately, and whose needs for social stimulation and emotional support are met, are more likely to grow into secure, independent children and adults.

Copyright 2007-08, Carla Moquin and Parenting in the Workplace Institute, Inc.