How to help MB

[Anonymous]

Hey ladies,

My MB is absolutely fantastic but lately she's been feeling a lot of "mom-guilt" about not being home with her 1-year-old twin boys. She stayed home with her daughter (who is now in school) but their family situation changed and she went back to work. Any suggestions for things I can say or do to help her? She's an absolute gem to work for and she's very appreciative of what I do so I just want to help.

Thanks!

[Anonymous]

Take a few days off with little to no notice. Then she can spend time with her kids.

[Anonymous]

Just continue taking great care of the kids so she can feel confident that they are in good hands and happy and that it's ok for her to work.

[Anonymous]

Did your mom work OP? I'll occasionally mention how my own mother worked, and how little it's negatively affected me, and how much I now admire my mom's contribution to her field. I think seeing an "end-product" of an adult that isn't traumatized by having had a working mother, and in fact still has a very good relationship with her mother can be very reassuring.

[Anonymous]

Thanks everyone

And yes PP my mom worked (still does) and all 3 of her children have turned out as well-rounded adults.

[Anonymous]

Do you send her pictures during the work day? I email a few pictures of DC to my MB during the day.

[Anonymous]

I think mentioning that your mom worked is a great idea! Also, maybe try to point out that though you can tell her child is always happy to see her when she gets home, that she has a great time throughout the day too...obviously only say that if it's true which I am hoping it is

I've worked for a mother that would text me hours after she left thinking her 2 year old would still be crying about her leaving. I had to reassure her that the crying stopped within 3 minutes of her departure. Sometimes I felt bad making it seem so simple because I felt like maybe she was missing her son more than he was missing her so I would highlight how excited he gets when she comes home and stuff.

[Anonymous]

When I sense my MB is feeling guilty I send extra photos throughout the day or have the kids make her something sweet. Even 1 year olds can pick a wildflower bouquet and "decorate" some cards for mommy. It shows MB they're still thinking of her throughout the day and she's always #1 to them. I also really talk up her coming home time to the kiddos. We prepare the house by making sure everything is cleaned up and watch the clock together, excited for her arrival.

[Anonymous]

Offer to bring them by her office for lunch one day...