Raising a family can be stressful enough, without the added pressure of juggling job demands and personal responsibilities. But, thankfully, in a world where the majority of parents both need to work, at least part-time, there are ways in which life can be made easier, for both ourselves and our children.

01. Put your family schedule down in a sharable platform

When you have family members of different ages involved in different activities daily, it’s important to have good communication. Putting the schedule down in an online shareable calendar helps to limit chaos and establish order.

02. Let the kids help with chores and consider paying them

No, it’s not child labour. It’s an education in what it takes to run a house, and they’re learning valuable life skills. It also helps to take the pressure off the parents to keep a neat home, and it distributes the load in terms of the housework (which can seem never-ending). Children can help by doing the laundry, working in the garden, cleaning the dishes, cooking, cleaning their bedrooms or bathrooms, and sweeping or mopping the floors. By receiving a small allowance for doing it, they’re also learning about earning an income, and this can add to their financial literacy.

03. Be willing to accept help

There’s nothing wrong with getting someone – either a reliable babysitter, an available and willing family member or a retiree – to babysit or fetch your children from time to time. This can make a big difference when you’re both working full-time.

04. Buy in bulk and in advance

Birthday or hostess gifts can usually be arranged beforehand, which will save money and time. By doing some pre-planned shopping at the beginning of the month, you can also ensure that you don’t run out of the essentials or non-perishable food.

05. Be adaptable

For your situation to work, you and your partner need to be a team, working together to raise your family. Often, your time won’t be able to be divided fairly and equally, and that’s okay. Sometimes, one will be paying more attention to the family and the other to their career, and vice versa. And when that happens, you should readjust and assess where you’re needed most. Communicate frequently, and be flexible.

If you or your loved one needs support during this time, reach out to your ICAS EHWP via your toll-free number.

Written by LifeAssist