Get Quality Childcare
Nothing will keep you distracted throughout your day like worrying about your kids’ safety, and comfort. Ensure the person you leave your child with is trustworthy checks the important boxes in your criteria list. While interviewing caregivers, whether nannies or daycare agencies, ask for references and conduct a rigorous background check. If possible, arrange for a play date during the interview and watch the interactions of the intended caregiver with your child or children. A good nanny should have excellent recommendations and extensive experience; while a good daycare agency should have employees with experience and a good recommendation, enough outdoor space, a low attendee-to child ratio and flexible hours.
Easen the Mornings
Whether you have school-going kids or not, get in the habit of organizing what you need the night before. Pick out the clothes you will wear, pack the kids’ bags, diaper bag and lunches and ensure everyone knows where everything they will need in the morning is. You can also plan for days ahead, depending on your schedule and leave some room for any unexpected eventuality. This will help you avoid getting frazzled and confused in the morning.
Teach Everyone to Be Organised
Children respond well to schedules and routines. Take advantage of this fact and create family schedules that encompass work, school and home activities so that everyone has a view of what is expected of them each day. This can be in a visual format like a board or a physical calendar placed strategically with columns for each member of the family and days. You can then take a few minutes over the weekend to review accomplishments of the previous week and plan out the coming week. This not only keeps you organised and in control, it trains your children on the importance of planning and discipline as well.
Have an Understanding with Your Employer
Even the best-laid plans don’t always pan out. Keeping your employer close helps. Before talking to your employer, do a little bit of research on what you are entitled by the law and also on the company policies. Also, maintaining a good relationship with your boss may prove useful when you need flexibility in your schedule.
Stay Connected throughout the Day
You obviously have a desire to stay connected with your children even when you are away from them. In this age of technology and gadgets, it is easy to quickly check up on things at home from the office. You can make calls during your breaks. You can also have nanny cameras installed stealthily around your home so you are always aware of what is happening at home. You can also record yourself singing or telling a story on baby’s tablet so they can listen to your voice when you are away.
Take Care of Yourself
As a working mother, you will always find yourself busy and being pulled in different directions. It is easy to get lost in between your role at home and at work and you realise you barely have time to catch your breath. You need to understand your value to your family and work; and the need for you to take care of yourself. Create time within your schedule where you take time away from both work and home duties and do something relaxing. This will leave you rejuvenated and ready to take on your roles with ease.
