“This struggle is real. The juggle is real. That’s why everyone should hire working mothers. They are put in crazy situations all the time and are forced to problem-solve. They are some of my most resourceful employees.”
— Sara Blakely

Today is World Mental Health Day and we wanna touch a topic that we know most parents working outside of the home would relate.

Every parent knows the heartache of leaving a crying child at a daycare center. The pang of guilt can be overwhelming. Take, for instance, Camilla, a mother who experienced separation anxiety at the thought of leaving her daughter, Sophia, at childcare, even though Sophia seemed to adjust well to her new surroundings.

If you've ever had this thought, you're not alone.

Separation anxiety is a common challenge, both for parents and children. It's essential to acknowledge these feelings while seeking solutions that support both parent and child with the right approach and tools.

One of the biggest stressors for busy working parents is choosing the right affordable childcare. Balancing work and family life can be challenging, and finding quality childcare is crucial to avoid the guilt that often accompanies this juggling act. We recognise the importance and the challenges, so if you're struggling to find a childcare solution that meets your needs, we've created a checklist to help you identify and evaluate the best possible options available to you.

Studies have shown that high-quality childcare positively impacts a child's cognitive, social, and emotional development. For instance, research from the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) indicates that children who receive high-quality childcare tend to have better language and cognitive skills during the first four-and-a-half years of life.

Conversely, as much as parents want to be there for their children, they also need to work to provide for them. Quality childcare is essential but can be expensive and not accessible to everyone, and poor childcare can lead to adverse effects on a child’s well-being. It's a reality that most parents face: the need for affordable, high-quality childcare options. Unfortunately, these options can be scarce. Therefore, it's crucial to thoroughly evaluate your options and choose what works best for both you and your child. It’s also crucial that companies provide options for working parents.

To aid you in this critical decision, we’ve created a free downloadable checklist to help find a caregiver who aligns with the positive discipline practices you value at home.

It's also important for parents to address their own feelings of guilt and anxiety when leaving their child in someone else's care. However, there are ways to deal with these emotions in a healthy way, especially if your child is still struggling with separation.

It's best to leave as soon as you can. Lingering only prolongs the process and may exacerbate your child's distress. If you find yourself struggling, give yourself permission to feel your emotions but try to find a private space to process them. A good cry in the car on the way to work can be cathartic, allowing you to release pent-up emotions and face the day with a clearer mind.

Here are some additional Positive Discipline tools you can use to help you:

Show Faith: Trust in your child’s ability to adapt and grow. Your confidence will bolster their confidence. Communicate positively about the childcare experience, emphasizing the fun activities and new friends they will make.

Letting Go: Understand that some anxiety is normal and temporary. Letting go doesn’t mean you love them any less; it means you trust them to thrive. It's important to be consistent with drop-offs and pick-ups to help your child feel secure.

Take Time for Hugs: Physical affection reassures your child of your love and presence, even when you are apart. Make time for extra hugs in the morning and evening to strengthen your bond.

Write Love Notes: Tuck small notes into their lunchbox or backpack (these should be images and words). These reminders of your love can provide comfort throughout their day, helping them feel connected to you even when you’re not physically present.

Remember, as a busy parent, choosing the right childcare isn't just about finding someone to watch your child—it's about ensuring they are in an environment that promotes their well-being and growth and aligns with your parenting philosophy. By taking the time to find quality childcare and utilizing Positive Discipline tools, you can alleviate much of the guilt and anxiety associated with this decision. Your child will thrive in a nurturing environment, and you will feel more at ease, knowing you've made a thoughtful and informed choice.

But even with the best preparations, challenges may arise.

It's important to stay flexible and communicate openly with your caregiver. If issues arise, address them promptly and work together to find solutions that benefit your child. Regular check-ins and feedback sessions can help maintain a positive relationship with your caregiver and ensure that your child’s needs are consistently met.

And remember, that it's okay to seek help and lean on others for support.

Your well-being and peace of mind are just as important as your child's happiness. Embrace the journey of finding the right childcare with confidence and positivity.