About 71% of Canadian mothers were employed in 2009 -- a higher number than in the United States, made possible by several government aid programs.
Pregnancy leave can last for up to 17 weeks for women, and an additional 35 weeks of parental leave can be divided between parents. Both programs are funded by the government, not private employers.
The Canadian government also offers families monthly allowances to help with the cost of raising children under age 18. And there's an additional $100 monthly allowance available for each child under age 6, to help with the cost of child care.
