I run my own business and have part-time help. Before i had my daughter, I imagined being super-mom and having a crib in my office for her so that i could manage my business and be close to her. She's 4 months old now. Could bringing her to work with me effect her negatively or would it be better to spend time with her outside of work only? I love her dearly and don't want to be the kind of mom who works and never sees her child. I also don't want to give up my career. Thoughts appreciated.
2007-01-09 13:53:57 · 8 answers · asked by Anonymous in Pregnancy & Parenting ➔ Newborn & Baby
I, and my husband, run our own business. I've had our son with us since he was 2 months old, and he just had his 3rd birthday.
It was difficult at times, but I'd never have done it any other way. He got lots of interaction with our customers; many would come just to see him! He became very good at entertaining himself when he had to, he now has little jobs that he does. I feel a lot of pride when people comment on what a good work ethic he has (a good work ethic is more and more rare these days!!). We had a jumpy thing we hooked onto the bathroom doorframe and he adored that. We kept him in our Baby Bjorn quite a bit, and he had a playpen.
He took naps, eats, learns his ABCs and 123's, learns the basics of the value of a dollar, serving others, and earning money for himself, everything at our shop. We'd read stories, and often times he'd charm customers into reading to him, playing catch, or playing with the toys with him.
He understands the difference between a customer (stranger) and friends. He knows not to take food from customers (strangers). His doctor is always amazed that he is never sick; he hasn't been to see his doctor in almost two years, only for his well-baby visits. Many day-care kids are often sick.
He gets to see his dad a lot, understands when to approach us with something, or when to wait for a few minutes. He knows to be quiet when we're on the phone or talking with a customer.
I think a lot of it depends on the type of work you do. Obviously, you will not be as productive if you did not have an infant there. The only way it would affect her negatively is if her basic needs are not being met (food, diaper changes, physical contact, emotional stimulation) or you become a stressed out monster to her on a regular basis.
I'd say go for it. It's very important for her to be with her mother. If you can't handle both, I think you ought to take a break from the business, not your daughter.
Good luck!
2007-01-09 14:23:42 · answer #1 · answered by Margie 4 · 2⤊ 0⤋
I think that's an individual decision and you need to try it out before making a final decision. Give a try for a few days. If it's your own business you can arrange it anyway you want to. Maybe 2 or 3 days a week so that you can stay on top of things there. Just ensure that it's not too disruptive to your employees with baby crying etc. I suggest not breast feeding in view of employees either. It may be "natural" but it is still disruptive. It's one thing when you're enroute somewhere and I'm definitely not one of those people who don't believe that women shouldn't be able to breastfeed their kids in public, but in your office you should be able to breast feed in private somewhere, especially since it's your business.
2007-01-09 15:28:02 · answer #2 · answered by LindaLou 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I think more parents should think like you.
I've worked in offices before where women were allowed to bring their babies to work up until 6 months old. It benefited the baby because there wasn't that added separation time so young and it benefited the mom as well and made her more productive at work.
I would advise though that whatever you choose to do, you offer the same benefit to your employees should they eventually have newborns to care for.
In many other countries this practice is quite common and I really hope to see us Americans get on board with recognizing the importance of child-rearing.
2007-01-09 15:34:02 · answer #3 · answered by Jen 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Its good you run your own business. Would you appreciate if your employees showed up with their kids. If you answer that question, then you have your answer.
I work from home and started my own business to spend time with my kids. I understand what you want. In a little while, you will realize that its best to leave your baby in the company of other babies. If you feel that you must spend time with your baby then you should get to a part-time schedule..anyway you are the boss.
2007-01-09 14:15:03 · answer #4 · answered by nano_mumbojumbo 2 · 0⤊ 1⤋
If its YOUR business i say DO IT! Most mom's dont have that option, only an angry looking boss to report when baby is in the office with them. Take her occassionally, I'll bet at this age she will do well, by toddlerhood, she may keep you too busy.
2007-01-09 14:01:34 · answer #5 · answered by motherhendoulas 4 · 3⤊ 0⤋
Yes. Work is work. You'll wind up doing less work and at a lower standard. Plus, a few hours away from the baby a day would even be good for you and her.
I know I appreciate my kids more when I haven't been hearing them scream all day.
2007-01-09 14:01:01 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 1⤋
Take her to work 2 or 3 days to see how it goes before you make any permanent decision. Good Luck!
2007-01-09 13:58:29 · answer #7 · answered by steffers4979 4 · 3⤊ 0⤋
Seeing that you own your own business, I don't see why not.
2007-01-09 15:16:06 · answer #8 · answered by daryavaush 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋