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During the maternity protection period, (expectant) mothers are under special legal protection. They are not allowed to work for a certain period before and after the birth. The Maternity Protection Act ensures that mothers are not financially disadvantaged during this time. Employees receive up to 100 percent of their previous net income, consisting of maternity pay and an employer's allowance.

If you as parents are not married to each other at the birth of your child, you can obtain joint custody by submitting both custody declarations to the youth welfare office in your place of residence.

Did you know that around 10% of all children are left-handed? On today's Left-handed Day, parents can find practical tips on the Familienportal.NRW on how to support their child in everyday life. 

Information on assisted parenthood in plain language

In 2023, around 6,000 girls and young women between the ages of 10 and 17 had to be treated in hospital for anorexia or bulimia - twice as many as in 2003.On the Familienportal.NRW, you can find out how eating disorders develop, what the warning signs are and where families can find support.

If the parents of a child are not married to each other, the biological father is not automatically the legally recognized father. Recognition with all rights and obligations only takes place through the public notarization of a declaration by the father. The mother must agree to the declaration.

Networking for families

What moves families in NRW? Take part in our quick survey now - you only need 2 minutes.

Does your child have a reading or spelling difficulty? On Dyslexia and Dyscalculia Day, we draw attention to learning difficulties in elementary school. Find out here how you can recognize signs and provide your child with the best possible support.

Review of the event on September 20, 2025 in Düsseldorf