These stories are part of our ongoing “HACC Heroes” series. We recognize the severity of the global coronavirus pandemic and its impact on our communities. During this challenging time, we want to thank and recognize HACC employees, students and others who are making a difference. The heroes featured below are our parents who are balancing work, raising their children and assisting in their child(ren)’s schooling. There are many additional HACC Heroes featured in our online newsroom. We are #HACCproud and grateful for all of our HACC Heroes!
“Every family needs to find what works best for them – there isn’t one ‘best’ way of navigating these times.”
“We need to be especially mindful of our little ones’ needs, as this situation can be stressful for them as well.”
“Be easy on yourself and others, these times are unprecedented and there is no guidebook.”
“Take care of your mental health and well-being so you can continue thriving during these challenging times. You are a parent and you will survive!”
“It is okay to recognize and admit there are days or times when things do not go as planned, but there is always something positive to be taken from a situation or a stressful day and that is where I choose to direct my energy.”
“Prep the night before. For example, my baby is 4 months, so I have her bottles/food portioned and the diaper bag is packed as if she was still going to the sitter (extra outfit, bibs, diapers, wipes, etc.). This way I don’t have to run around the house for much of anything, it’s all right at my fingertips.”
“First and foremost, I have adopted the motto to not be hard on myself. If I have to hand my kids a device or sit them in front of the TV for an hour in order for me to be able to focus on work, I do it. That would be my number one tip.”
“Help, help, help your colleagues as much as you can! Whether it’s sharing a technical tip, covering a meeting or sending a kind note, we all have something to give.”
“If possible, I recommend setting up your work space to minimize distractions. For example, my work space at home is away from anything anyone in my family will need during the day.”
“One technique that I have found helpful to juggle my professional duties and personal duties is to have a morning meeting with my kids where we develop a schedule for the day. The schedule is not set in stone, but it does give the kids, my husband who is working from home, and me some structure for the day.”
“I try to be flexible and patient with my children because sometimes things do not go as I have planned.”
“Be sure to give yourself (and each other) some grace! These times are not normal and so we can’t expect our work lives to go on as normal just at home. Ask for flexibility, communicate your struggles and your triumphs.”
“Keep an eye on your children’s online activities and give them chores around the house.”
“We have suggested to our kids to try and use the tech to make a movie or to build with Legos – things that require them to imagine and create.”
“It would be great if we could start a mom group to share tips with each other or simply vent with someone who gets it.”
“Most importantly, I have learned to just breathe. It doesn’t have to always go according to plan to still work out perfectly fine.”
“I cannot stress enough the importance of keeping a schedule. I suggest using a weekly calendar to map out each day.”
“No one is giving out trophies for the kids with the least amount of screen time, and if that extra hour means you get a shower and a bit of quiet, it’s absolutely necessary.”