Supporting part-time working mums

Recent surveys show that part-time working mums are often happier with their situation than either mothers working full time or staying at home full time. Yet being a mum working part-time can have its issues, so here are some ideas about how to support the part-time working mums who come to your group.

Remember, it’s often lonely. It’s easy to feel that all the stay-at-home mums have got a hectic social life, with lots of friends to share coffee and chat. So sometimes an invitation to be included in social events can mean a lot.

Introduce them to others in the same situation. Mums who don’t get to pick their children up from school every day lose the chance to make friends in the playground. A toddler group may be the only place they can easily meet others. Introducing part-time mums in your group to another may be a source of support for them both.

Don’t make assumptions. Working is often out of financial necessity, not choice, yet many mothers who can afford to stay at home but choose to work instead. Remember each situation is different.

It’s easy to feel guilty. As a working mum you can feel that you are always rushing, and not giving your kids enough time. Sometimes you feel you ought to be at home. However research indicates that although working mothers are not with their children all day, they often spend just as much time in meaningful one-to-one communication.

Remember the mums you don’t see. You are almost certain to have some children at your group who are brought by childminders. Do include their parents whenever you can. Perhaps they can attend the Christmas party, or a Saturday event. They will appreciate an invitation. They also really enjoy seeing the craft activities that their children bring home.

Their time is precious. Since they are working part-time, their time with their child is limited, so they will treasure their moments together at toddler group. Part-time working mums truly value the opportunity the toddler group gives them, and will often be your most appreciative and loyal members. So do thank them for coming!

Spring 2008

Last Updated 13 January 2011