Back to School for Children – and Parents!
School may have been out for summer, but it’s coming back in the coming weeks! The end of summer often brings a mix of excitement and apprehension for employees with children. As your employees adjust to new school, sports, and activity schedules, employers can play an active role in helping their workforces to adjust to these demands. A few simple changes can have significant impact on balancing work and family responsibilities.
A Supportive Work Environment Makes All The Difference
- Flexible Work Arrangements – Implement Flexible hours, remote work, or compressed workweeks. These easy modifications to regular work schedules may assist employees with childcare needs.
- Communicate. Communicate. Communicate. – Provide opportunities for employees to share their concerns about their evolving responsibilities and formulate solutions together.
- Time Management Support – Offer resources or training on time management and prioritization techniques to help employees effectively manage their personal and professional workloads.
- Childcare Resources – Source information about local childcare options to assist employees in finding reliable care.
- Emergency Backup Care – Offer support for employees to create secondary childcare options for unexpected emergencies, such as school closures or sick children.
Building a Strong Support System
Employers need to be mindful that empathy and understanding can go a long way. A supportive environment and allowing employees to continue to contribute and balance their personal demands are mutually beneficial initiatives. In addition, reminding employees of your EAP and other resources may be welcome recommendations for those who struggle with adjustments associated with school-aged children. Finally, showing appreciation for their efforts is likely to reassure stressed parents that professional careers and satisfying personal lives can coexist.
We Can Help
OneSource HR Solutions Professionals are available to help you implement these strategies and create a positive and productive work environment for your employees – all year! We can show you how investing in employee well-being benefits individuals and contributes to overall organizational success. Contact us, today!