MONTEREY >> For a number of years now, the four branches of the Central Coast Federal Credit Union have offered a children’s play area that can be used by customers and employees alike. They are carpeted rooms with books and toys to entertain children, helping clients finish their transactions and employees complete their workday if they’re having trouble securing daycare.
So when Leinette Limtiaco, president of the financial organization, found out about a new certification program for businesses that are child and family friendly, she decided to apply.
“I figure, we’re doing it anyway,” she said. “I started the application, answered the questions and we won for both categories. It’s something we’ve been practicing for years.”
As a way to encourage business practices that support families, an advocacy organization has just implemented a certification program in two categories: the “Family Friendly Employer” and the “Child Welcoming Business.”
The program was established by Bright Beginnings, an early childhood development initiative of the Monterey County Children’s Council, in partnership with the Monterey Peninsula Chamber of Commerce. Organizations that want to be certified apply for the distinction and receive a certification in three different categories: gold, silver and bronze, depending on the level of support they give to their employees and customers.
“The idea is to start by recognizing businesses that are doing good things for children in the community,” said Megan Kennedy-Chouane, program manager of Bright Beginnings. “One is for businesses that are welcoming and have safe areas, whether it’s the dentist office waiting area, restaurants, gas stations, where children would be visiting with families and businesses are accessible or provide activities or opportunities for children to play, be read to and talk to or enjoy their time together.”
The second certification is for businesses that help give employees flexibility to deal with their families, such as providing a space for breastfeeding or having onsite childcare.
“We know how much of a difference the first five years of a child’s lives (make), and working conditions have a huge impact on children’s development,” Kennedy-Chouane said.
Last week, Bright Beginnings recognized 11 businesses for their efforts. Four of them – Monterey Peninsula College, Central Coast Federal Credit Union, First 5 Monterey County, and Spoke Consulting were given double certification.
Limtiaco said the credit union has had family friendly practices for decades, such as family leave. Officials have added more as legislation progresses, but they’ve also adopted some non-mandated policies such as giving flexibility to allow employees to take part in their children’s school functions.
It’s a good tool to keep employees happy and retain them, Limtiaco said, something that she confirmed when she heard employees talk when they celebrated the recognition.
“We were very excited, and employees were gathering and confirming this is a child friendly place,” she said, adding that she overheard them say “you can go make more money somewhere else, but not all businesses offer this.”
Kiran Kamath, vice president of academic affairs at Monterey Peninsula College, said it makes sense for the college to be welcoming of very young students as it has a widely recognized child development center and training lab.
Children “are our future,” she said. “It’s a real feather in MPC’s cap to get this kind of recognition from our colleagues in the community.”
To apply for certification, visit https://brightbeginningsmc.org/family-friendly-business/
Claudia Meléndez Salinas can be reached at 831-726-4370.
