Stay-At-Home Parents Return to Work
Parent and Child Activity Ideas to Ease Back-to-Work Transitions
Sep 7, 2009
In the current economic climate many previously stay at home parents have found themselves returning to the work place. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics over 206,000 workers were laid off in July, 2009. Due to spousal job loss it may be necessary for a stay at home parent to now find out of home employment. This can be psychologically stressful for the parent. Although there is no substitute for the day to day time spent with a child, these fun activities and ideas may help to alleviate some of this stress.
Parent and Child Art Projects
Creative expression is a fantastic outlet to relieve stress and create a sense of well being. Making art with a child can provide an opportunity for bonding, and result in a magnificent masterpiece to bring in to the office. Try painting, drawing, print making, or collage as a means to make a very special memento of a wonderful shared time. Hang or display (in a frame) the artwork in a prominent place if possible. If not, place the artwork in a locker or drawer to peek at as needed.
- Painting: For young children, create a parent child finger paint. For older children, try a collaborative landscape or group portrait.
- Drawing: Help a young child to draw his or her name in different colors of crayons. Older children can choose a special subject matter and try pastels or other drawing implement.
- Print making: Use stampers, sponges, or scratch foam printing plates to make unique prints in a rainbow of cheery colors.
- Collage: Use family photos and found objects to create a paper and glue construction.
Family Photos
Family photos are a frequent sight at many offices. Hanging a photo of a child or favorite family memory is a simple way to bring the home life into the work place. Choose photos that depict the happiest of times. Examples include holidays, birthdays, vacations, or other special occasions.
Another way to explore photography in the context of a parent child activity is to create special family portraits. Instead of spending hard earned money at a pricey photography studio, take some pictures at home. Encourage the children to take the role of photographer. Ask them to take photos of each other or special places around the home.
Parent and Child Letters
Letter or note writing can be a great way to bond with a child. Letter writing should be a two way street, with one letter for the child and one for the parent. These notes need not be long and involved writings, but instead brief and uplifting words or phrases. A simple, "I love you!" is always nice to read.
Start by writing a note for the child (or children). Make sure that these are age appropriate. This will ensure that the child can read the note and that he or she will not be embarrassed by the content. Place the note in a lunch box or pack back. Next, ask the child to write a letter or note. Very young children may need help with this task. Take the note to work and hang it near a desk, in a locker, or any other place where a quick glimpse can be had.
Leaving a child at home to return to work can be an extremely difficult situation. Try to spend extra time at home participating in parent child activities that promote bonding. Bring the art projects, photos, and notes made during these times in to the office for an added sense of comfort and home while in the work place.
Sources: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Mass Layoffs (Monthly), August 21, 2009.
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