How to Balance Work, Training, and Self-Care as a Child Care Provider - post

Why is balance important for child care providers?

When you feel supported and rested, it is easier to stay patient and kind. You can also #learn new skills without feeling overwhelmed.

Balance helps you: 

• Stay calmer during busy moments
• Keep up with training requirements
• Have more energy for #home life 

Taking care of yourself is part of doing great work with children. 

Why does balancing work, training, and self-care feel so hard?

Child care work is fast and demanding. Many providers feel pulled in three directions.

Common reasons include: 

• Long shifts and few breaks
• Extra tasks (cleaning, notes, paperwork)
• Family duties after work
• Training that feels like “one more thing”
• Guilt about taking time for yourself

If this sounds like you, you are not alone.

How can you make a simple weekly plan that fits real life?

A plan helps you stop reacting and start choosing. Try this 10-minute weekly check-in (pick the same day each week).

• 1) Pick your top 3 work priorities.
  Example: prep materials, finish one set of reports, organize one shelf.
• 2) Pick one training goal.
  Keep it small: “30 minutes this week” or “one lesson.”
• 3) Pick one self-care goal.
  Make it easy to do: “Walk 10 minutes twice,” or “Lights out 15 minutes earlier.”

Tip: Write your goals where you will see them (planner, phone note, or a sticky note).

How can you fit training into a busy schedule?

Training is easier when you do it in small pieces. Even 10–15 minutes adds up.

Try these strategies:

• Use short time blocks. Do one section, then stop.
• Pick two training days. Example: Tuesday and Thursday.
• Link training to a habit. Example: “After dinner, I do 10 minutes.”
• Keep your spot saved. Write down what you finished so you can start quickly next time.

If time management is your biggest challenge, this ChildCareEd course gives practical strategies for providers:

• It's All About the Timing - online

If #stress is getting in the way of learning (and enjoying your work), these ChildCareEd trainings focus on coping skills and balance:

• From Stress to Wellness

• Stressbusters: Stress Management for Childcare Providers

What self-care can you do during the workday?

Self-care in child care needs to be quick and realistic. Think “small resets,” not big changes.

Try one or two of these:

• 4 deep breaths during transitions
• Drink water when children wash hands
• Stretch shoulders and hands after lifting or cleaning
• Step outside for 1 minute (even by an open door)
• Use a calm cue like a short phrase: “Slow is smooth.” 

A helpful #free resource for a calm, mindful reset is:

• Mindful Bell Moment

This kind of mindfulness tool can support children—and it can support you, too. 

How can you protect your energy after work?

Many providers go home and keep caring for others. A short “shutdown routine” can help you recover.

Try this simple routine:

• Wash hands + change clothes (signal “work is done”)
• Snack + water
• 5 quiet minutes (music, shower, or sitting with no phone)
• Set up one thing for tomorrow (pack lunch or lay out clothes)

If you can only do one step, do the water and the quiet minutes.

What workplace habits lower stress and save time?

A smoother day often means a calmer mind. Simple systems can reduce the “rush” feeling.

Try these provider strategies:

• Opening and closing checklists so you do not forget steps
• Batch prep (cut paper for the week, fill paint cups once)
• Clear transition routines (song, picture cards, the same steps each time)
• Share tasks as a team and rotate the hard jobs

These habits can free up time for training and rest.

How do you know if you are heading toward #burnout?

Burnout is more than being tired. It can feel like you have nothing left to give.

Common signs include:

• You feel exhausted most days
• You get irritated more easily
• You dread going to work
• You feel “checked out”

If you notice these signs:

• Talk with your director about support (break coverage, schedule changes, or help with tasks)
• Ask family or friends to help with one home task
• Choose training that supports your well-being, not just compliance
• Consider talking with a #health professional if stress feels too heavy

Where can you find more support and motivation?

Ongoing learning is easier when you feel encouraged. This ChildCareEd article shares simple ways to grow your skills and keep moving forward:

For quick tips and short videos, subscribe to ChildCareEd on YouTube and follow along: