Balancing work and family care in Italy: current challenges and perspectives

The contribution will reflect on the current challenges in reconciling childcare with work in the Italian context, taking into account the origin of the problem and the ongoing debate on this issue from a sociological and a gender perspective. It will present the labour market situation, focusing on employment of men and women and the impact of having children, as well as the leave system, cash benefits for parents, and early childcare provision, aimed at giving a brief overview of the reconciliation measures available. The multidimensionality of the issue will then be addressed by discussing the relevant contribution of companies and employers in supporting parents' work-life balance (such as company measures and policies like working from home and flexible working hours), the recognition and support of fathers’ involvement in family care, and the implementation of family policies and interventions within local communities to support parental skills and wellbeing. Thus, specific guidelines and suggestions will be provided to support a positive integration of childcare responsibilities and work for working mothers and fathers.