How To Work Overnights As A Single Parent Child And Self Care

If you have the option, try hiring a friend or relative to watch your child at your home while you work. That way, your child can sleep in their own bed and may feel more comfortable. While some friends or relatives may babysit for free, you can try to entice them by paying them as well.

An au pair can also do things like pick up your child from school and prepare meals for them. Use a professional au pair service so you can be sure they’re certified and trained. Look for someone who has experience working with children the same age as yours, as well as a genuine love for children. They should also demonstrate integrity and a strong sense of responsibility. [3] X Expert Source Julie Wright, MFTParenting & Baby Sleep Specialist Expert Interview. 10 March 2020.

Professional babysitting services have sitters that have been certified and licensed. If there are multiple services in your area, check out some online reviews to help you make your decision.

Remember, they’ll be with your child in your home all night, so you want to be sure you can trust them.

Show your sitter how you would handle certain situations so they can follow your lead. For instance, if there’s a certain way you give your child food or help them brush their teeth, show your sitter how it’s done so they’re prepared for it. Make sure your sitter knows your schedule is well so they know exactly where you’ll be if they need you and when you’ll be back. Let your sitter know if it’s okay if they sleep while your child sleeps. If you’re uncomfortable with that, tell them upfront what you expect.

Many overnight daycare providers operate out of their own homes, but there may be a 24-hour daycare facility in your area that you can use as well. Licensed daycare providers have also been certified in CPR.

You need to try to make up as much sleep as you can during the day, but if you have a child at home, you can’t leave them unattended while you rest.

Consider turning off your phone as well, unless you’re on call and need to leave it on.

You can organize with just a few parents as well. For instance, if Sarah can’t pick up her child on Mondays and Wednesdays, you can do it for her and she can pick up your child on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

You may also be able to ask your sitter or nanny to make dinner as well. Some overnight daycare services may include meals. If they don’t, you may be able to pay for them to make dinner if you’re unable to.

Nobody likes homework, but it can still be a great chance for you to spend some time and bond with your kiddo. Try minimizing distractions like TV and music during homework time so they can focus.

If you’re super worn out from a long day, try a relaxing activity you guys can do together. Playing a video game or watching a fun show together can be some great quality time. Use your quality time to check in with your child and talk to them about how they’re doing and how they’re feeling.

Your routine can look completely different than another parent’s routine. The key is that it’s consistent.

Try holding off on binge-watching that new show until you have some time off and can make up your sleep. You need to be as rested as you possibly can be so you’re able to look after your kids and stay alert at work.

It can be tempting to have sugary sodas and snack food while you’re working. But sweetened or processed food and drinks can come with a crash once the sugar rush wears off. Making healthy eating choices can be tough when you’re exhausted from working and being a parent. Try cooking large meals when you’re off that you can pack into containers to eat at work.

5-10 minutes of jump rope can be a heck of a good workout that doesn’t cut into your schedule too much.

You don’t have to tell them everything about your personal life, but briefly explaining that you have a child at home that you may need to check on if something comes up can help smooth over any issues that may pop up in the future.