Title: Evaluate trends that affect families.
Course: Introduction to Family and Human Services (19001-36) > Section: Exploring the Family and Work Life Ecosystem

Evaluation should include how policies are responding to local, national, and global trends in the following:

- Supportive services: availability, affordability, and ease of access to
  - safe housing
  - efficient transportation
  - fresh and healthy foods
  - quality child care
- Family-friendly benefits
  - family and medical leave (e.g., paid parental leave, Family and Medical Leave Act [FMLA], bereavement leave)
  - annual and personal leave
  - health insurance and access to a variety of medical providers
  - awareness of and access to disability, mental, and behavioral health services
- Employment trends
  - the global economy and availability of career opportunities
  - changes in work environments (e.g., telecommuting)
  - values such as diversity and inclusion, workplace safety, and career growth.

Process/Skill Questions:

Thinking

- How do family-friendly policies also benefit employers?
- What state and federal laws are in place to protect families and provide essential services?

Communication

- In what ways can an employer indicate to others that the business is family-friendly?
- How can mental and behavioral health be promoted in the workplace?

Leadership

- What resources are available to those who want to change workplace policies?
- What are the benefits of flexible working hours, part-time work, job sharing, and telecommuting for both employers and employees?

Management

- How can management policies support diversity in the workplace?
- What barriers do employees and managers face when trying to improve workplace policies and attitudes in support of individuals and families?