Outrage Over Company Policy: Sick Kids Are Not an Excuse to Miss Work

In recent years, more and more companies have recognized the need to offer flexibility to working parents, especially when it comes to family emergencies like children's illnesses. However, this isn't the case everywhere. Recently, a major company in the United States announced a new and contentious policy: children's sick days will not be accepted as an excuse for missing work, and employees are expected to find alternative solutions. The announcement caused an uproar among working parents and online communities alike.

The memo shared on social media stated: "If your child is sick, it will no longer be considered a valid excuse for missing work, and this will be noted in your personal file. We don't employ your children, so their illness is not a reasonable cause to miss work."

The memo that sparked outrage

The post which removed the company's name from the memo received criticism and disbelief from many. Numerous users doubted the company's approach to work-life balance and employee welfare. Some argued that this policy might result in employees bringing their sick children to work, spreading illness among colleagues. Others called for naming the company to shame them for their inhumane policy.

One commenter wrote: "We don't employ your children? Well, you also don't employ my partner, my parents, my friends, and my extended family. They may need my help, pass away, have a wedding, graduation, or other significant life event that I want to be present for. Time to hire only orphans with no relationships," they wrote angrily.

Another responded: "Fair enough. I'd leave a note on that saying: 'No matter what bug my kids catch, I eventually get it too. But if you want five staff members out because I gave them COVID, then fine. Your loss.'"

Another user added, "So foolish. This just encourages people to lie. Now I don't feel guilty that my child is sick and I need to stay home. And if you're an employer that shows no compassion, never expect your employees to do so either."