Here are five ways to help you manage everything without feeling like you are overwhelmed or worse:
Be organised
In order to ensure things run smoothly in the home you need to be organised - this is probably one of the most effective ways to help you manage everything. Mark dates on the calendar, keep notes of school events and give each child their own folder so that you will never forget anything - a command centre will become your best friend.
Work with your child’s minder
Your childminder is going to be your biggest asset so make sure you are both on the same wavelength and know what is expected from each of you. While you need a sitter who is available on random days if your children fall sick, you need to respect them and not expect them to be on tap whenever you need them.
Give yourself time to relax
It is easy to let ‘me time’ become a distant memory as you juggle everything, but you still to make time for it. Unlike babies and small kids, older children are a little bit more independent and don’t need you to be hovering them all the time. When they are at play dates, reading, drawing or even simply quietly playing on their own, take the time to relax and have a coffee or tea.
Organise play dates on days off
A lot of working mums feel guilty if they struggle to reciprocate play dates that their little ones have gone on, but there is no need. Remember, play dates don’t have to only take place on the weekdays, the weekends are also a great time to have your little one’s friends over. If you feel like the weekends should be family time only, have friends over in the morning and spend quality time with your brood in the afternoon.
Eat dinner at the table
The best way to keep up to date with your child’s homework, interests, friendships and any problems is by talking to them, and dinner time is perfect for this.
