A Guide for Working Parents and Caregivers
As summer winds down and the school year begins, many working parents and caregivers find themselves facing one of the most demanding (and exciting!) transitions of the year. From new classroom routines to after-school logistics, this season can bring a whirlwind of emotions, time crunches, and mental load — all while you’re still expected to show up at work, focus, and perform.
Back-to-school season doesn’t have to be a solo struggle. With the right strategies, communication, and support, you can navigate this time with more balance.
Here are some practical ways to take care of yourself, advocate for your needs, and support your team during this seasonal shift:
1. Talk About It — Especially with Your Team
One of the most helpful things you can do during this time is to communicate proactively. Share how the back-to-school transition might affect your schedule or availability. You don’t need to share every detail — just enough to open the door to understanding and collaboration.
Try something like:
“My mornings might be a bit unpredictable for the next two weeks while my kids adjust to school drop-offs. I’ll be online by 9:30 and will shift some of my deep work to later in the afternoon.”
When leaders and team members talk openly about caregiving responsibilities, it helps normalize them — and reduces the pressure to pretend everything is “business as usual.” This is especially important if you manage other people.
2. Ask for Flexibility
You’re not asking for special treatment by requesting flexibility — you’re asking for reasonable support during a temporary, high-stress period.
Think about what kind of flexibility would make your life easier right now:
- A shift in start/end times
- A lighter meeting load during the first weeks of school
- A temporary redistribution of certain tasks
If you’re unsure how to ask, here’s a starting point:
“Would it be possible to adjust my hours slightly during the next few weeks to accommodate school drop-offs and pickups? I’d be happy to shift tasks as needed to ensure coverage.”
3. Appreciate and Acknowledge Your Teammates
Back-to-school transitions often require a group effort. If others on your team are helping to cover for you — whether by taking extra calls, rescheduling meetings, or stepping in when you’re offline — take a moment to say thank you.
This builds goodwill and helps foster a team culture where support goes both ways.
If you’re covering for someone else during this season, know that your effort is seen and deeply valued. Teamwork doesn’t just mean sharing wins — it means sharing the load when life gets hectic.
4. Make Small Adjustments That Help You Feel More Grounded
Sometimes, the smallest tweaks can make a big difference in your day:
- Stock your desk with snacks and water — you wouldn’t let your kid go without, so don’t forget yourself
- Block time on your calendar for school events in advance, so you can plan around them
- Adjust your expectations — it’s okay if your days are more reactive than proactive for a little while
One parent shared:
“I spent so much time prepping lunchboxes that I’d show up to work famished. Now I keep a snack stash at my desk — game changer.”
5. Know That This is a Season — Not a Forever Situation
Transitions are temporary, even when they feel overwhelming. That first drop-off tear? That scramble to make after-care pickup? It won’t always be this hard. If you’re feeling behind, off-routine, or like you’re barely hanging on, try zooming out.
Whether you’re a parent, a caregiver, or someone without those responsibilities right now, we all have a role to play in making the workplace more human.
If you’re in a season where you can give a little more flexibility, do it. If you’re in a season where you need extra grace, ask for it. Mutual respect and empathy are what turn a group of coworkers into a team.
