In the States, we don't get as much time off from work in order to bond with our children as most other countries. It's really unfortunate.
With that said, it's healthy (and necessary) for children to learn how to become independent from their parents. That doesn't mean we as parents need to stop loving them as much as we do, or force them to make their own food and start doing their own laundry at 2 years old (although that would be nice!).
It's probably the most difficult part of parenting that I've experienced so far.. Letting go. Because I know that I'm holding on Real Tight! But slowly letting go is an amazing experience when you get to see your child grow into their own person; watching them laugh at something silly, get super excited about finding a toy that they forgot they had placed (hid) somewhere, sing a song that they've been learning (without you prompting them), and so many more experiences!
I hope that you and your daughter are able to adjust to the new routine and both of you grow closer together because of it!
That really sounds unfortunate. What's the "normal" time off in there? I think the kids will always be okay, it's more about the parents and their feelings.. when you don't want to miss out anything. But you are right, letting go is important too, though it's super hard.
"Normal" for a mom is 6-8 weeks. For a dad, maybe 2-6 weeks.
Recently, some private companies are extending to a "long" 16 week program, but that's still somewhat rare to see from a company.
At least these are the lengths of time where a parent will continue to be paid while they are away from work.