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We have a huge problem cropping up in our economy due to the fact that we have more women in higher-paying jobs than ever before. The cost of living has gone up so much that many families cannot afford to live on one income. Costs of daycare are going up as well. Therefore some people would say that if the mother has to go to work to help provide for her family (or goes because she wants to) she should be allowed to bring her child to work with her. I heartily disagree. Perhaps my opinion is offensive to you, but let me explain my reasoning.

First of all, since we have to evaluate the effect this will have on the child. Is the workplace going to be the best environment for them? I believe that children benefit from having their mothers around them as they grow up, but how much attention and care are they actually going to get from mom when she is trying to do what she's getting paid for? There aren't many child-proof office environments, which would suggest that as soon as mom has her back turned to take a phone call, fax a memo or talk to another employee, there are many dangers the child could be exposed to.

If the child doesn't really get their mother's attention anyway, then wouldn't they be better off in day care or with a friend or relative? If they ARE getting her attention, then how much work is she really getting done? Should the employer accept sub-par work from women bringing their children just because they think they have the "right" to bring them along? That standard would be ridiculous.

Some of the people arguing for the affirmative in this debate talk about how they think employers should all provide free day care for their employees' children. Why is it in our society that we expect to get everything for nothing? I see no real argument for employers to provide free child care. Employers already have to pay income tax, social security, FICA, and often a 401K or retirement for each employee. This is above and beyond what they are paying into salary or hourly wages.

What about the other employees in the officethose who have no children or do not choose to bring them to work? If the employer set up a free daycare for mothers who chose to use it, they would also be forced to compensate the other employees, which would mean paying out even MORE money.

There may be some rare occasions when it might be appropriate to bring your child to work with you. Some employees offer special days set aside for that purpose. Some people are lucky enough to work in environments that are suitable for children, such as day care or home or family businesses. For the most part, though, it is unreasonable for women to expect the "right" to bring their children into the workplace.

Feminism has had a huge impact on us. We women wanted to have high-salary jobs and work alongside men, so we do. We asked for equal treatment, but honestly would a man feel he had the "right" to bring his children to work? Probably not.

Learn more about this author, Amy Gunn.
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