Top tips for flexible working and childcare

Being a working parent can be a real challenge to get the balance of childcare and work responsibilities just right. We understand, as we’re doing it ourselves. Here are some tried and tested top tips that have helped us and that we think could help you

WHAT HELP ARE YOU ENTITLED TO

Find out what help you are entitled to from the government first and foremost as this should help you shape your childcare needs for now and as your family grows and changes. Check out what you are entitled to here

KNOW YOUR RIGHTS

All employees have the right to request flexible working which may help you juggle pick-up and drop off times more effectively. Also, looking at both parent employer-specific policies may find one being more generous than the other, which can affect the choices you make.

USE CHILDCARE EFFECTIVELY

There are so many options for childcare. Nurseries offer set structured hours, but a childminder may be able to offer that extra bit of flexibility that may make a difference for you and your needs.

DEFINE CLEAR BOUNDARIES

Make sure that every minute of your working time is dedicated to just that, coupled with a hard stop at the end of it. This ensures that once you switch to family time, you feel able to dedicate the same focus to that.

BE REALISTIC AND SET EXPECTATIONS

Understand yourself and how much practical time you can realistically dedicate to your work that also allows you to balance family life effectively. Stick by these expectations and don’t measure yourself against anyone else’s.

DITCH THE GUILT

Balancing work and childcare is all about compromise – there is no right or wrong way and what matters most is that it works for you and your family.

Our top tips on flexible working and childcare