Gilbert, Ariz.- Gilbert, Arizona has just announced a new program aimed at making life easier for working parents by allowing them to bring their infants to work up to age six months. 

Gilbert police officer Denise Parker is the first employee to participate in the program. She takes her five-month-old son to work while she is on light duty in the administration building.  

“Being a first-time mom, it's been a little hard,” she said. “Having him by my side until I’m able to figure out things is just an amazing feeling.”  

She says he naps most of the day in his pack-n-play or swing. If he gets fussy, she takes him to a nursery room downstairs to change or feed him and continue her work. She says her coworkers and command staff have been more than supportive and he even boosts office morale.  

“Anyone who comes by can't help but smile,” she said. “Big SWAT guys who you see them rough and tough start talking baby talk to him. It’s funny to see those big guys turn to mush with a baby.”  

Gilbert’s Human Resources Department has already received applications from other expectant parents who plan to participate in the program. Parker says it’s a great asset for all employees and adds to the culture of the environment she wants to be a part of for years to come.  

“Gilbert is more than just a place of work,” she said. “It's a family.”  

For more information on working for Gilbert, Arizona, visit gilbertaz.gov/jobs.