Navigating Work-Life Balance: A Working Mum’s Guide to Travelling for Work

For the first time in five years, my professional life has taken me on a journey away from the comfort of my home office to the upheaval of travel for work. As I packed my bags, I couldn’t help but feel a twinge of guilt and a wave of worry wash over me. Leaving my children at home, even in the capable hands of their dad, stirred a mix of emotions. The house that usually echoes with my involvement in their daily routines suddenly seemed too quiet, too still. It’s a new challenge, balancing the demands of my career with the needs of my children, especially when one of them has Special Educational Needs (SEN). The guilt of a working mum is profound, but it’s accompanied by a silent hope that this experience will foster growth for all of us.

Understanding the Needs

Special Educational Needs can encompass a wide range of learning, emotional, and behavioral difficulties. Each child is unique, and understanding their specific needs is crucial. Before stepping out, ensure that both you and your partner are well-versed in the daily routines, medical requirements, and emotional support strategies that your child relies on.

Building a Supportive Environment

Your partner is your teammate in this journey. It’s essential to create an environment at home that is conducive to your child’s growth and comfort. This includes setting up a structured routine, organising the living space to minimise distractions, and having a clear plan for emergencies.

Communication is Key

Open and ongoing communication with your partner is the cornerstone of successfully managing your child’s care. Regular check-ins throughout the day can provide reassurance and an opportunity to address any concerns that may arise. Additionally, consider using technology to your advantage—apps and devices can help you stay connected and monitor your child’s well-being.

Empowering Your Partner

Empower your partner by ensuring they have all the necessary resources at their disposal. Chances are your partner already knows all of this, you are team afterall. But as the default parent, mum's often carry this burden of knowledge single handedly, and can be quite territorial over it too. So by sharing this, it might include training sessions with a special education professional, access to therapeutic tools, or simply a list of activities that your child enjoys. Confidence in caregiving comes from preparation and support.

Self-Care for the Caregivers

It’s easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of responsibilities, but remember that self-care is not selfish. Encourage your partner to take breaks, pursue hobbies, and maintain social connections. A well-rested and happy caregiver provides better support, and this, in turn, benefits your child.

Leaving your SEN child at home with a partner is a testament to the strength and resilience of your family unit. With the right preparation and mindset, you can ensure that your child receives the best possible care while you contribute to the workforce. Remember, it takes a village to raise a child, and every member of that village, including working mums, plays a vital role.