I’d really appreciate some advice from other parents who work in residential/support care and have children at home.
I work full-time and usually do 1–2 sleep-ins/overnight shifts at work each week, so this isn't something I can realistically avoid altogether. And then im off for the rest of the week! So x2 24hr shifts max per week. I've started this job 2 months ago but its 1 month of training and then last month I have been covering 24hr shifts. My daughter cries and hates it everytime I leave.
My 10-year-old has been particularly upset tonight because I’m working away tomorrow and won’t be home until the following day. She’s literally just come back from Birmingham, so I think the timing has made it hit particularly hard. She was crying and telling me she needs me and has barely seen me lately.
I did try to get cover for tomorrow, but unfortunately couldn't. She was understanding in the end and even said, "at least you tried," but it absolutely broke my heart seeing her so upset.
I know lots of families have parents who work nights or stay away for work, and I don't want to make this into something bigger than it needs to be. I’m just wondering what other working parents have found helpful.
If your children struggle with you working overnight, what do you actually do to help them feel secure and connected when you're not there?
Things like routines, little traditions, ways of keeping in touch, preparing them for the nights you're away, or anything else that has genuinely worked for your family would be really appreciated.
And honestly, I'd also love to hear how you manage the parent guilt when they're really sad about you going. 😭