Why not bring your child to work...at least on occasion? There are pros and cons to taking this step, and here are some good reasons to go ahead and try it! But bringing your kid to the office requires a willing employer, supportive co-workers, and cooperative kids!
1. Your Boss Says Kids Are Okay At Work
DO check with your boss first before discussing bringing your kid to the office before you talk about it with anyone else. The worst approach is for an employer to hear about your intentions from someone else.2. Your Employer Embraces Kid-Friendly Practices
Check with Human Resources to see if there is any policy or practice concerning bringing kids to work. Some employers let new parents bring their young infants to work so that parents return to the workplace sooner vs. later. Others allow it on occasion or during a child care crisis (such as the caregiver is ill). Still others welcome kids and even set up a mini-care facility or room for young kids.3. Your Co-Workers Think Babies At Work Are Cool
While you may not be required to have support and approval from co-workers, it sure won't hurt, right? Child-friendly peers who adore babies or are excited about your pregnancy or new birth are more apt to help promote the idea that bringing a baby to a job site can work!4. Part-Time Is An Option
Many employers would rather see a valued employee in the office part-time than not at all. And, as such, if you can negotiate a part-time schedule, perhaps you can pick times to bring baby in when the office is less busy and avoid deadline times and other times of predictable office chaos.5. Your Employer Offers Daycare
Some employers are really getting the hint that employees are parents too, and the key to overall success is to achieve a life's balance. Some companies offer on-site daycare; others negotiate with a nearby caregiver. These arrangements help foster productivity and sometimes make all the difference in the world between an employee remaining on the job or not.6. Your Office Is Somewhat Kid-Friendly
While no office is particularly designed for babies or toddlers, some are certainly more kid-friendly than others. Consider what type of work you do and the safety of equipment and items that might be tempting to a young child. Certain machinery or chemicals, for example, would be absolute safety no-nos, while administrative support or an office-type environment could be feasible. In the end, it will be the parent's job to ensure your kid stays safe while in your office.7. Preparation Fosters Success
If your boss does say "yes," whether it is for a few hours, on occasion, or even permanently, preparation is key to make the arrangement work. Be sure to have appropriate food and drink, diapers, entertainment, and other activities. You don't want your toddler drawing on important legal documents or scribbling with a permanent marker up and down a hallway.8. Know When To Hold 'Em and When To Fold 'Em
Both employee and employers should have a clear understanding of the situation and expectations. Everyone knows that babies may cry; but incessant, inconsolable wailing is more than anyone signed up for. Coos are okay; shrieks and smelly diapers are not. All parties should enter into an arrangement with an open mind that this needs to be successful for everyone in order to continue.9. The Arrangement CAN Work Well
Reduced hours, occasional care, babies allowed until they begin to crawl, one-day a week guidelines...the possibilities are out there, and moms in this type arrangement have given thumbs up to the arrangement. With proper planning, communication, understanding, and support, babies and/or kids at work can work out. And, when it does, it makes for happier and more productive employee-employer team.10. It's Take Your Son/Daughter To Work Day Celebration!
The national date for Take Our Sons/Daughters To Work Day is the fourth Thursday in April. However, employers and schools across America opt for different dates that work better with business needs, special events, or to encourage greater participation. Does your employer celebrate this date? If not, ask if a day could be established so kids can learn what their parents do in the workplace.Do you ever bring your kid with you to work? Is it on an ongoing basis or for emergencies only? Is your employer supportive? Co-workers? Share your "take your kid to work day" stories.
