How To Fit A Career Around Childcare
Earning a living while raising children isn’t easy. Both work and childcare each consume a lot of time. Finding the most suitable way to balance work and childcare is essential. Below are just a few tips on how to fit a career around childcare.
Look for a flexible job
Nowadays, there are more flexible jobs available than ever before. Many jobs that previously had to be worked from an office can now be worked from home – and in some cases you can choose your own hours. Such a job may be easier to fit around childcare, as you may be able to work it in the evenings when your child is in bed or during school hours. Just be realistic about how much time you will be able to dedicate to work and the potential for distractions.
Talk to your employer
Don’t want to look for a new job? Many employers understand the needs of a parent and may be able to provide you reduced hours or more flexible hours – even if other workers aren’t eligible for this privilege. If you need to work around a partner’s hours or are only able to arrange paid childcare for certain hours, tell your employer this and see if they are able to make unique work arrangements for you.
Compare paid childcare options
Looking into paid childcare such as a daycare centre or childminding services may be necessary in many cases. Making sure that you can afford these services is crucial – make sure that it is worth your time to take on more hours and compare fees of different childcare services. Quality of childcare is important too, so make sure to read reviews and consider trialling out different childcare services to see which one your child enjoys the most. There are temporary options you can consider in school holidays, and more permanent options you can consider for after school/nursery.
Seek support from family and friends
Your family and friends may be able to help with childcare, so that you don’t have to rely solely on paid childcare. If you have a partner, first consider dividing up childcare hours between you both – you may be able to work different shifts and take turns looking after the kids. If your child’s grandparents live nearby, consider whether they can help. There could also be aunts and uncles you can rely on, as well as close friends. Even if you have to pay them, it’s likely to be cheaper than professional childcare options.
Don’t sacrifice your own free time
When juggling work and childcare, it’s important to set aside some time for yourself. You need time to sleep, relax, socialise, pursue hobbies and chase personal goals. If you’re spending every waking hour looking after kids or working, you need to start scheduling some free time each week. This is particularly important with young kids, who are more demanding. Older kids may be able to occupy themselves, freeing up more personal time to spend as you desire.
