The challenges for working mothers, and what companies and others can do to help

The pandemic’s dramatic effect on working parents isn’t news anymore—but even as many slog on, juggling jobs and family alike, a substantial chunk of working mothers say they’re considering downshifting their careers or dropping out of the workforce entirely. That’s a problem, and not just for moms. Get perspective with several recent publications that unpack the issues and offer ideas for building a better tomorrow. And, in case you need a break, we’re including a few things to occupy the kids while you rest and recharge. (We’ve been there.)

For mothers in the workplace, a year (and counting) like no other

Author Talks: Joann S. Lublin on lessons for working mothers, their families, and their employers

A fresh look at paternity leave: Why the benefits extend beyond the personal

Seven charts that show COVID-19’s impact on women’s employment

Five Fifty: The pandemic’s gender effect

Women in the Workplace 2020

COVID-19 and gender equality: Countering the regressive effects

For the kids

A tiger’s tale about what nature is really worth

(Food) waste not, want not

Hungry fish, baffled farmers, and what happened next

From the New at McKinsey blog

Liz Hilton Segel: What I’ve learned about life and leadership from my mom and daughter