How to Support Working Parents (and Yourself)
Being a parent is one of life’s biggest joys, but also one of its biggest challenges. And when you’re balancing that with a career? Things can get overwhelming fast.
Whether you’re a new parent returning to work after parental leave or an employer looking to build a more supportive workplace, this blog is packed with honest tips to help you get it right.
The Real Struggles of Working Parents
Going back to work after having a baby is a huge transition. You’re not just stepping back into a job, you’re stepping into a new version of yourself. It’s common to feel unsure, overwhelmed, or like you’ve lost your rhythm.
Many parents experience:
- Loss of confidence
- Guilt (both at home and work)
- A feeling of being constantly behind
- Difficulty finding work-life balance
These challenges are real, and they’re more common than most people realise.
What Employers Can Do to Support Parents
Workplaces that support working parents don’t just attract great talent, they build loyalty, trust, and better teams. Here are some simple but powerful ways employers can help:
1. Offer Flexible Work Options
Allowing parents to adjust their hours or work remotely can be a game-changer. Whether it’s starting earlier to handle school pick-up or working in blocks around naps, flexibility is key.
2. Create a Parent-Friendly Culture
Encourage leaders and staff to talk openly about parenting. Normalise it. When people feel safe to be themselves, they’re more productive and engaged.
3. Support the Return to Work
Coming back after maternity or paternity leave can be overwhelming. Check in regularly. Offer transition support or coaching if you can. Even a simple “how are you doing?” goes a long way.
The Mental Load Is Often Invisible
Many parents aren’t just doing their job, they’re also managing childcare, schedules, emotions, school events, and all the little tasks that pile up. This is called the mental load and it’s real.
It’s important for employers and coworkers to recognise this and offer grace and understanding. Simple gestures like offering schedule flexibility or showing empathy can make a huge difference.
Tips for Parents Returning to Work
If you’re a parent trying to rebuild your confidence or restart your career, you’re not alone. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Be kind to yourself. You won’t have all the answers, and that’s okay.
- Take it one step at a time. Small wins matter.
- Find support. Talk to others who’ve been there: friends, colleagues, mentors.
- Communicate your needs. Ask for flexibility, breaks, or support when you need it.
Why Supporting Parents Is Good Business
Employers who support parents are not just doing the right thing, they’re also making a smart business move. Happy, supported parents are loyal, focused, and bring valuable life experience to their roles.
Whether you’re a hiring manager, a business owner, or a team leader, creating a workplace where parents can thrive helps everyone succeed.
You don’t need to be perfect. Parenting and working at the same time is a huge job. But with empathy, honesty, and a little flexibility, it’s possible to go from frazzled to found, at home and at work.
If you’re a parent: you’ve got this.
If you’re an employer: a little support goes a long way.
This blog came from our recent webinar with Renee Barnes, where we unpacked how to better support working parents while looking after yourself too. Watch the full session here.