7 Mom-Tested Tips for Balancing Work and Family
Wondering how to create a better morning routine, stay involved in your child's life while you're at work or make the most of your evenings at home? Get tried-and-true advice on ways to juggle work and family from other working moms. Then visit the Working Moms message board for more strategies and support.
How can I make mornings go more smoothly?
- Follow the same consistent routine each day so your children know what to expect.
- Get up before your kids do to exercise or have a quiet cup of coffee.
- Get showered and dressed before your kids wake up.
- Set out your kids' clothes the night before so there's no arguing about what to wear.
- Pack your children's lunches and backpacks the night before.
- Let children do as much as they can by themselves -- get dressed, brush their hair or pour themselves cereal. This can help them feel independent while also freeing you up to do other things.
- Keep breakfast simple and portable.
How can I stay involved in my child's school or daycare?
- Go on school field trips or volunteer in the classroom if you can take time off from work.
- Volunteer to help after work hours -- plan parties, prepare crafts, make phone calls.
- Stay in touch with your child's teacher or caregiver by phone and email.
Donate snacks and supplies for parties or projects.
- Channel some of your work talents into volunteerism. Help build a Website for your child's daycare center, for example.
- Ask your caregiver to keep a journal of your child's activities and milestones.
How can I build a positive relationship with my caregiver?
- Look at the relationship as a partnership.
- Work together to solve behavior problems both at child care and at home.
- Drop by as often as you can to say "hello" -- share your ideas, express your interests and volunteer to help.
- Recognize your caregiver's good work. Send a thank-you card or a small gift.
- Bring surprise treats to day care like snacks, crafts or toys for the kids.
- Keep your caregiver informed of any changes in your child's schedule.
What can I do when my child is sick and I need to work?
- Decide in advance how you and your husband will share this responsibility.
- Split the day with your husband.
- Work at home if you can.
- Line up someone locally who can care for your child on short notice.
Save some of your sick days to care for your child.
How can I make the most of evenings at home?
- Give yourself and your kids time to relax and unwind.
- Make kid-friendly meals in advance or cook something quick and easy.
- Treat yourself to dinners out on occasion.
- Turn off the TV and discuss your day during dinner.
- Stick to a routine so your kids know what to expect.
- Factor in fun and time to snuggle.
Between working all day and dealing with the kids at night, how can I maintain a healthy relationship with my husband?
- Spend time together, even if it's just reading or watching TV.
- Talk and email during the workday.
- Schedule lunch or dinner dates together.
- Put the kids to bed early so you have more time to yourselves.
- Go to bed at the same time -- and make love!
How can I let go of my feelings of guilt about working?
- Ask yourself why you feel guilty.
- Do whatever it takes to help you feel good about yourself.
- Don't identify yourself as a mother only.
- Celebrate the fact that your kids are happy and healthy.
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