IT TAKES A VILLAGE STRATEGIES TO BALANCE PARENTING AND PROFESSIONS

Parents wear many hats every day. That’s especially true for those juggling families and careers. Chauffeur, negotiator, advocate, moderator and employee are just some of the titles that apply to modern parents.

Life with children can be as challenging and chaotic as it is rewarding. At times when parents feel overwhelmed, it’s important to remember that this is an experience all parents share.

In the last few years, the workforce has adapted in many ways, particularly the number of employers adopting family-friendly policies or pivoting to hybrid or remote work. That means working parents have more leverage to find a balance that suits their unique situations. These tips can help you free up more time for what’s most meaningful to you.

Define your priorities

Think about what cannot be compromised or negotiated. Maybe that is being home at a particular time each day so the family enjoys dinner together. Get clear ideas of what you value most so you can build plans around those priorities. Communicate with employers about obligations in advance.

Develop a community

Reach out to trusted friends or neighbors who can step in during emergencies when work schedules cannot immediately be adjusted. Pool resources with a neighbor to cover transportation on different weekdays for school and extracurriculars.

Stay connected

Family calendar apps can serve as personal assistants to track family activities, work-related appointments, and even meal plans. There will be times when one or both parents will be unable to attend an important function, but video chats can help you stay connected to your kids and support them from afar.

Employ time-saving strategies

Embrace ways to save time during the day. Order groceries online during a lunch break and pick them up curbside after work. Schedule virtual meetings and conference calls during commutes, if possible.

Take vacation time

Make it a point to use all vacation time, coordinating days off to coincide with family members’ days off. Family vacations offer the best shots at uninterrupted, enjoyable time together. They should be ranked highly and scheduled early to ensure travel is possible.

Outsource chores

Hire a housekeeper to come in weekly to tame messes if it's in the budget. If not, make chores a fun family affair and let children help with tasks in exchange for an allowance or special treat. A robot vacuum can tame dirt and dog fur on the rug while you are away.

FUN & SAFE

FUN & SAFE

FUN & SAFE

Homework Help

Leadership Opportunities

Active Play

Friendship

Homework Help Active Play Friendship

Leadership Opportunities

Main Club 2750 Main Ave (4th Gr and older)

Main Club 2750 Main Ave (4th Gr and older)

Homework Help Active Play Friendship

Leadership Opportunities

2023-2024 Club Afterschool Experience Exploration and

2023-2024 Club Afterschool Experience Exploration and

Main Club 2750 Main Ave (4th Gr and older)

2023-2024 Club Afterschool Exp Exploration and

Durango 9-R Elementary School sites (Kindergarten- 5th Gr)

Durango 9-R Elementary School sites (Kindergarten- 5th Gr)

Durango 9-R Elementary School sites (Kindergarten- 5th Gr) info@bgclaplata.org info@bgclaplata.org info@bgclaplata.org bgclaplata.org bgclaplata.org bgclaplata.org