We want to reward and recognize businesses that already have child-friendly practices. In 2006 and 2007, the winners of the First 5 Fresno County "Child-Friendly Business Awards" were highlighted and profiled in a public service campaign that included prominent displays in local print and radio media.

1. With a flexible workplace that enables employees to take care of their family you will get the best from your employees
2. Employees will stay longer with employers who
   support their needs as parents
3. Avoid business costs due to work absences
4. Customers with children feel more comfortable
   in an environment that supports families
5. Happy customers mean loyal customers
6. Customer loyalty means more sales/productivity
7. Giving children a healthy start contributes to a
   productive workforce in the future
8. More children better prepared to succeed, result
   in thriving communities
9. Positive early experiences help prevent future problems (such as crime, health care and remedial education)
10. You could win a Child-Friendly Business Award!

How to Create a Child- Friendly Business 2006 2007	Atmosphere	Employment Practices	Attitude
	Accessibility Does your business have easy access for strollers including ramps, automatic doors and door holders? Is there adequate and safe parking with designated spots for customers with small children? Physical amenities Is your business designed in such a way that customers with small children can find a quiet place to rest or breastfeed babies? Do you have a washroom that is suitable and available for small children and changing tables for infants? Play space Do you have a safe, designated play area for small children that is stocked with clean and cared-for materials? Have you considered the needs of small children (booster seats, high chairs, small play furniture)?	Flexibility Does your business support the use of flex time, job sharing, paid time off, banked time and break time for employees to manage family obligations? Advocate Are you aware of and support government policies that support parents of young children? What do you know about national and municipal policies around child care, employment standards and parental benefits? Benefits Do your employees understand and use benefits such as parental sick leave, parental leave, additional maternity leave and progressive returns after maternity leave?	Marketing Do you regularly consider the needs of local families in your business plans and marketing efforts? Support of children's programs Do you or your staff volunteer with a local children's program - either on the board of directors or during fundraising efforts? Have you considered financial and in-kind donations to local programs? Customer service Do you encourage staff to acknowledge children in a welcoming friendly manner? Do you have a process in place where customers can provide you with feedback?