‘Parent-friendly Label program enters its 3rd cycle’

Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority Opens Applications for Parent-Friendly Label Program

The Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority (ECA) is now accepting applications for organizations to participate in the Parent-friendly Label program for the third cycle. This initiative aligns with the UAE leadership’s commitment to early childhood development.

Launched in 2021, the program is open to semi-government, private, and third-sector organizations with at least two years of operation in the UAE. By adopting the 19 criteria provided in the Parent-friendly Label, organizations can showcase their parent-friendly policies, practices, and culture.

According to HE Sana Mohamed Suhail, Director General of the ECA, the goal of the program is to promote parent-friendly workplaces that support working parents, understand family needs, and offer parental leave and breastfeeding hours. These initiatives aim to create a work culture that benefits both employees and their families, resulting in positive outcomes for children and society.

In the previous cycle, 75 organizations from various industries applied for the label, with educational institutions, professional services, and financial institutions leading the way. The program’s impact has benefited over 127,000 employees, including 67,000 parents and 48,000 children aged zero to eight, with around 1,500 children with determination.

Interested organizations can apply for the Parent-friendly Label program from February 27 to September 2, 2024. The program offers two tiers of recognition based on local requirements and leading global practices. The label is valid for two years, with follow-up assessments conducted after the first year by an independent panel of senior leaders from each emirate.

During the second cycle, participating organizations experienced a positive shift in workplace culture, leading to a greater focus on supporting working parents. The ECA will showcase successful organizations and host educational webinars in the coming weeks to raise awareness about the program’s application process, criteria, and benefits.