For working mums ...

The words "Problems" and "Parenting" always go hand in hand. The problems get doubled if the mother happens to be a "working  mum". Parenting poses a great challenge to women in managing work life balance.

The primary striking issue is to have someone at home to take care of the child until the child grows up to a certain age. Women in joint family is somewhat relieved of this tension.Somehow, this has to be handled and this article is not intended for that. We would be discussing about other issues that come along as added bonus as the child starts growing.

• Time spent with the child
  All children yearn for their parents', especially mother's caring and special attention. But based on the type of work/job, mothers are hardly able to spend time with the child. The by product of this is that they develop so called "guilty feeling" , which impacts their work and personal life. They should understand that it is not the quantity of time spent but the "quality time" that matters for a child. 
• What is quality time? The time that you are completely with the child , both mentally and physically. How?
• Forget about your work when you remove your footwear while entering the house. 
• Spend your first 15 minutes only with the child. Depending on their age, either play with them or talk about their school day . By this , you send a clear message of caring to your child.
• Involve your child in your household work, wherever possible. All you need is to motivate them for all the little things that they do.
• Plan your weekends and holidays properly. Do not end up in only cleaning and doing other household chores. Plan the work such that you spare at least half a day with the child.. play with them , go for an outing or anything that interests your child. 
• Disciplinary issues : Learn to say "no" to your child
• Generally, if both parents work, their financial status is expected to be at a high level. How does it impact your child's behavior?
• Do not allow your child to exploit this and buy them whatever they ask for. Children should learn to accept "no". 
• If you are going home late due to work pressure, do not cover up by buying them something. Instead, explain them and make them understand your work situation. 
• Do not accept any mis behaviors just because you have to be nice with them in the less time that you are with the child. I have seen this with many parents.. This is again due to the "guilty feeling". 
• Inculcate Responsibility
• Make your child responsible for their things like their toys, their books etc at a very early stage. How?
• If possible, provide a separate room for the child. He/she should be taking care of whatever is there in the room. 
• Do not hunt for their things. Children should know to keep their things in place. If not, they should end up searching on their own. They will gradually develop the discipline of keeping things in place..
• Tidying up their toys/craft work. Ask your child to tidy up the toys as soon as they complete playing or completing any craft work.
• Getting ready for school : Let the children pack their school bags and check for their uniforms. If they fail to do, allow them to face the consequences for a day /two , which will automatically  correct them.

Practice these small tips , which can work wonders in your child's behavior. Best of luck !