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Tips for parents
It's been called the most important job on earth: Being a good parent. Along with all the joys of parenting come challenges. Odessa Brown Children's Clinic understands that it isn't always easy, and we're here to help. |
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How to balance work and family
 Balancing work and family can be, well, a balancing act. If you give your all to getting ahead, you're cheating their children. If you take time out for your kids, you're cheating your job.
It seems there's never enough time for both, particularly when problems from one spill over into the other.
To help working parents cope with the pressures of their double lives, Odessa Brown Children's Clinic offers the following tips:
- Make each a priority. Family comes first when you're at home, and work comes first when you're at work. You'll be happier and more productive if you can enjoy your family time when you're at home and concentrate on getting the job done when you're working.
- Get organized. A little planning and organization can go a long way in preventing stress, both at home and on the job. At home, set out clothes the night before and designate specific places to keep homework, shoes, school papers, etc. At work, try to schedule difficult tasks earlier in the day so that you're less stressed when you come home. Use the commute to unwind.
- Set realistic work expectations. Don't overestimate what you can do at work. If you have to, negotiate more realistic goals and tasks with your supervisor and be prepared to take time off to deal with important family business.
- Teach children to do it themselves. Praise and encourage children when they get dressed, make their own lunches or organize their own backpacks. The more they do, the less you have to do.
- Follow a daily routine and set ground rules. Wake your child up at the same time each day and follow the same order - dress, breakfast, teeth, backpacks - offering praise and encouragement for cooperation.
- Work together with your spouse or partner, dividing housework and parenting tasks fairly and offering both practical and emotional support when needed. Get the kids to help out by doing simple household tasks.
- Be choosy about your childcare. Knowing that your child is safe and happy brings peace of mind at work. In choosing a daycare or preschool, talk to other parents and make site visits. Do the children look happy and engaged? How do staff members interact with the kids? Is the center or school safe and clean?
- Alternate work and play. To give your life balance, take holiday breaks and vacations and engage in recreational activities outside of work.
- Switch off negative thoughts. Instead of "I'll never finish that job," think, "I'm home and off-duty".
- Develop a relaxing coming-home routine. Hug the kids and your spouse, ask them about their days and listen to their answers. Change into non-work clothes.
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