Establishing a Work-Life Balance as a Parent

It seems as if there are not enough hours in the day to work, attend school functions, plan and make healthy meals, exercise, and still have time for yourself. The ability to fit all of life’s functions into one 24-hour day and still sleep every night seems as far-fetched as traveling to the moon. The Diocese of Orlando presents the following information for parents of students in private schools in Central Florida that may aid in hectic scheduling and conflicts in activities.Stop Feeling GuiltyIt is natural to think about your child while you are working, especially if school or pre-school are brand new ideas. Instead of dwelling on how you want to be with your child and what the two of you would be doing together, think about how your child is benefiting by attending a private school in Central Florida and how you are able to care for your child’s future by working.Ease into the DayBy choosing an outfit the night before, showering or bathing the night before, cooking and preparing lunches in advance, and otherwise streamlining the morning routine, you are able to add more leisure to your mornings and reduce tension.Be Candid with Your EmployerIf you have a small child in school, chances are you will be called to school for various reasons including school drop offs, meetings, and more. Tell your employer the times these scenarios are likely to occur, and plan beforehand. Take late lunches to pick up your child after school, or work with your spouse to predetermine who drops off and who picks up your child. Most employers willingly allow employees flexible hours as long as the total amount of weekly hours are met.Stay in TouchWorking while your child is at pre-school or school can sometimes cause feelings of abandonment. Tell your child that you love him or her every day, tuck little notes or happy face drawings in lunchboxes, and text older children when they are home to check in and make sure they are happy. Communication is not merely face to face. This is not only beneficial to your child; it helps you as well. Hearing your child’s sweet voice can bolster your mood.Limit DistractionsIf you are with your child for four hours between coming home and bedtime, make the most of that time by being involved in their lives. Turn off the television, stop checking your texts, and enjoy dinner as a family. Take a walk to look at birds flying, worms crawling, and spiders building nests. Ride your bikes together or play catch. This one-on-one time will build strong family bonds.Working with small children is not an easy task. Much planning and consideration must occur every day to give your child a sense of security and ensure you feel connected with your child’s life. The Diocese of Orlando asks that you remember the strength of prayer in family life since praying together helps bind all family members to each other and to God. Call the Diocese today at 407-246-4903 and read our blogs for more suggestions on how you can build strong relationships with your child, your private school in Central Florida, and your faith community.