This report discusses the importance of parental leave as an integral component of a broader early childhood education and care (ecec) policy. It first describes different types of leave policies in industrialized countries, including international developments and the historical contexts in which these policies evolved. It further illustrates how their leave policies are linked with other ecec policies and programs, and discusses the different objectives of the policies, which range from protecting wome's and children's health to fostering labour force participation. Finally, the paper concludes with the significance of these policies and the implications for the U.S.