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3 Challenges Working Parents Face

Posted By : Administrator Friday 27 Jan, 2017
3 Challenges Working Parents Face

When you are a working parent, you find yourself constantly trying to stay above water. Proper time management and attention to detail become especially essential, whether you are the parent of an infant or a teenager. The following are three issues working parents face most often and some tips on how to handle them.


Work Life Balance

Balancing your child’s school schedule, cricket practice, doctors’ appointments and your important 8 am meetings and house responsibilities are enough to make anyone crazy. The truth is that millions of parents have to juggle all of these things and more. So what can you do to ensure that your world doesn’t fall apart? 

❖ Many parents feel like they have to do everything on their own. You should remember the old saying, ‘It takes a village to raise a child.’ There are always others you can reach out to for help. This includes a counselor or therapist who can support you with issues you might be facing.

❖ Divide tasks between yourself and your partner, so that it feels like only half a load. 

❖ Many employers take worklife balance very seriously. Make use of those work-from-home days or ask your manager if you can operate from home one Friday a month. Your children will thank you for it.


Childcare

Finding someone reliable to look after your child when you are at work is one of the biggest concerns. With nuclear families becoming more and more common, other relatives are not around to help out, and relying on friends and other people at all times is not possible. Whether you are hiring full-time or part-time help, or looking to use a daycare, keep the following points in mind:  

❖ Always have someone who will be able to step in, even if it means that’s you or your partner. There’s nothing worse than being blindsided on a Monday morning when you are rushing for a meeting. 

❖ When choosing a person/place for your child, always rely on recommendations. Sometimes the cheaper or closer choice is not the best. 


Finding Time with Your Spouse

When you have a family, time seems to work against you. Although it can be challenging, it’s vital to every relationship to schedule private time together. Whether it’s going out for dinner once a month or sharing a hobby, spending one-on-one time with your spouse will strengthen your relationship. 

❖ Plan your time together much in advance, so that there is little chance of having to cancel. 

❖ Buy tickets for a movie or a play. When you make a financial commitment, you are more likely going to attend.


Being a working parent is not an impossible task. However, it is a difficult one. The three aspects discussed above are the most common causes for people feeling as though they aren’t being good parents or which lead to a breakdown in relationships. In such cases, it can be highly beneficial to reach out to trained counselors and psychologists for help.


Catex Health is a large network of mental health experts who are available 24x7 for your support and will ensure confidential, dignified and empowering support for any sort of emotional distress. Click here to reach out to an expert or call +91 9911775626.