Life as a Special Education Teacher and Mom, With Lena A
As your trusted partner in the parenting journey, Gerber Childrenswear advocates for sharing the journeys of our parents on our blogs and social channels. Whether you’re a working parent or a stay-at-home parent, everyone has a story. Please feel free to share your experiences with us by using #TheParentingJourney. Now, let’s hear from special education teacher and devoted mom Lena as she shares her working mom tips.
Hi there! My name is Lena. Wife to Ron, mama to Brooklynn, special education teacher, grad student, and content creator on Instagram @shes_moving_mountains. I have a LOT on my plate and although at times it is overwhelming, I take it step by step and day by day.
Being a Working Mom Is a Balance
I am not going to lie; it is not easy, but I have learned to prioritize. You can pursue your career and be a great mom. As a special education teacher, there is always work to be done. I used to struggle to leave work for the day without all the items completed on my to-do list. In time, I have learned to become better at giving myself grace and telling myself that the work will still be there for me tomorrow. I love my career, but family always comes first.
This past year I had to call out and use a ton of sick days. I felt so guilty. Colds, the flu, belly aches, and the big C word ran through our house. I learned that some things are out of my control. At the end of the day, school will go on, work will go on, and it will all be waiting for me tomorrow.
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Make Sure You Have Fuel in Your Engine
One of my biggest pieces of advice for working moms is that you truly can’t pour from an empty cup. Some days I let my daughter stay after hours at school, so I have time for myself. My husband and I are a good team and communicate with each other when we need a break. Coming to terms with all these different things has really helped me to make it all flow. Here are a few helpful things that I do to help manage the stresses of working parents:
1. Make Time for Yourself
No strings attached. This time is just for you! I treat myself to a coffee or go to a park. As I said above, you can’t run an engine that is empty.
2. Stay Organized
Working parents need parenting tools. I use calendars and lists to keep organized. Planning helps me to break down tasks into manageable chunks.
3. Say Yes to Less
I find myself being selective about what tasks and activities I take on. Different seasons of your life are more hectic, and it’s OK to say no sometimes. If it causes me anxiety or stress, then it is not worth it.
4. Be Easy on Yourself
I used to have these super high expectations of myself. As a person who wears many hats, cooking every night and having a perfectly clean home is unrealistic. Make peace with your beautiful mess!
Whether You Are a Working Parent or a Stay-at-Home Parent, Be Easy on Yourself
Working parents and stay-at-home parents have a lot on their plate! You are enough and as long as you are doing your best, you are doing it all. So, what if you didn’t make the bed today? It is totally fine! If you vacuum tomorrow, guess what? There is always another day. You’ve got this!
Every parent deserves encouragement and support. Here at Gerber Childrenswear, we’ll be here with you every step of the way on #TheParentingJourney. Whether you need advice for working moms or the cutest and softest baby clothes for your little one, Gerber Childrenswear has you covered. Discover adorable Onesies® Brand Bodysuits and stylish baby outfits and sets for sleep and play. Whether your style is baby neutral or you adore cute prints for your baby girl or boy, there is something special here for every family!
