Being a working mother comes with a unique set of challenges. The working mother must balance not only her duties at work but also her role as a mother and primary caregiver. It can be difficult to feel focused on work when you know that your little one is in the care of another person.

There are some hints that can help the working mother make life easier for herself and her child include:

· Finding adequate childcare early. One of the most stressful aspects of being a working mother is finding childcare. If left to the last minute, the new mother can find that she has to settle for whatever is available. Instead, she should be researching and interviewing potential caregivers early in her pregnancy. Another tip is to have a back-up plan in place in the event that your caregiver isn’t available one day. Many people will turn to a family member to provide this occasional last minute type of care.

· Saving sick days for when the child is ill. Many people take advantage of the sick day policy their employer provides. They will stay home whenever a small cold erupts. In the case of a working mother it’s most advantageous for her to save those days for when her child is ill. The child will feel better knowing that their mother is close, while at the same time the mother won’t have to face a day of worry about her sick child.

· Change your work hours if possible. Many employers are now recognizing the benefit of accommodating the schedules of working mothers. Some women have requested a 4-day workweek in which they work extra time each of the four days in order to have the fifth day off. Others have decided to work at home part of the time, while being in the office just a few days per week. Many employers are open to these types of suggestions and it certainly doesn’t hurt to inquire at your work.

Working mothers can certainly make time for both their career and their children. It can take some help from the father and other family members, but it is possible. It’s very important for the working mother to always keep her priorities straight. Becoming a mother is a wonderful time in the life of any woman but it certainly doesn’t mean that a woman has to give up her career aspirations. With some much-needed balance and a clear idea of what needs to be accomplished a working mother can thrive in all areas.