April 28, 2016 Health Department to Observe Take Our Daughters and Sons to Work DayEmployees encouraged to participate

Baton Rouge. La., Apr 28, 2016 - LDH Secretary Dr. Rebekah Gee has encouraged all LDH employees to participate in Take Our Daughters and Sons to Work Day, which Louisiana is celebrating Friday, April 29 per a proclamation from Governor John Bel Edwards. The annual observance creates an opportunity for children to learn more about their parents' jobs and how education is important to success in the workplace.

This year's theme is "Sparking 'Aha!' Moments," which, according to the Take Our Daughters and Sons to Work Foundation, "represents the greatness of imagination and new ideas."

In her message to LDH employees, Gee invited all staff who work in conditions safe and appropriate for children to bring their children to work with them tomorrow, citing the benefits of parents and caretakers connecting with their children over their jobs and the responsibilities required in the workplace.

"Too many children don't understand where mom and dad go during the day and what it means to be 'at work,'" she said. "Bringing Louisiana's children to work places helps them connect with their parents over a new concept and understand how parents and caregivers make sacrifices every day for their families."

Gee added that observing the day is also beneficial to maintaining a healthy work/life balance.

"It's a great way to spend some more time with your child during the day when he or she is the most alert and active, and who doesn't wish they had more time to spend with their kids?" Gee said.

Governor Edwards is also enthusiastically supporting Take Our Daughters and Sons to Work Day in Louisiana, arranging for a tour of the Capitol building for the children of staff, legislators and employees from across the Capitol complex. The governor will also personally lead a rally for the children on the steps of the Capitol at 11:30 a.m.

For more details about the Day, including suggested work-place activities for children of all age levels, please visit http://daughtersandsonstowork.org.

The Louisiana Department of Health strives to protect and promote health statewide and to ensure access to medical, preventive and rehabilitative services for all state residents.To learn more about LDH, visit www.dhh.la.gov. For up-to-date health information, news and emergency updates, follow DHH's Twitter account and Facebook.