National Take Your Child to Work Day – The Reality of Balancing Business & Parenting
April 24th marks National Take Your Child to Work Day, a day dedicated to showing kids the ins and outs of the professional world. For many, it’s a fun excuse to take a peek into what their parents do all day. But for business owners and working parents, the reality is a bit different—we don’t need a single day to bring our kids into our work lives. We live it every day.
As a business owner and a mom, I know firsthand that balancing entrepreneurship and parenthood isn’t always smooth sailing. Some days, it feels like you’re barely keeping your head above water. But through the chaos, there’s something beautiful: the ability to build something not just for yourself but for your family.
Why I Started Smoothe & Co. – And What It’s Taught My Kids
Seven years ago, I launched Smoothe & Co., not just because I was passionate about skincare and beauty, but because I wanted more control over my time. I wanted to be present for my kids—to have the freedom to pick them up from school, attend their events, and be involved in their lives without answering to a boss.
But let’s be real: Running a business isn’t a 9-to-5. It’s a 24/7 commitment. Even when I’m physically home, I’m constantly thinking about the business—scheduling clients, planning marketing campaigns, managing inventory, and making sure my team has everything they need.
At first, I worried that my kids would resent how much time I spent working. But then, I realized something incredible: They were learning from me. They saw firsthand that:
- Success requires hard work – They understand that nothing is handed to you; you have to earn it.
- Time management is key – Whether it’s running a spa or managing homework and sports, organization makes all the difference.
- Passion fuels purpose – They see that when you love what you do, work isn’t just about making money (though important)—it’s about making an impact.
How to Involve Your Kids in Your Business
If you’re a business owner, consider using Take Your Child to Work Day as an opportunity to show them what you do in a meaningful way. Here are some ideas:
- Give them a “job” for the day – Whether it’s greeting clients, helping with social media, or organizing supplies, making them feel involved gives them a sense of responsibility and pride.
- Let them shadow you – Have them observe your workflow so they can see what really goes into running a business.
- Teach them about finances – Explain concepts like budgeting, expenses, and profits in a simple, age-appropriate way. Start a savings account at your local bank, and teach them about savings and spending.
- Encourage their own business ideas – If they have an entrepreneurial streak, help them brainstorm ways to turn their interests into a business!
The Challenge & Reward of Balancing Business & Parenthood
Let’s be honest—owning a business while raising kids is no small feat. Some days, it feels like you’re being pulled in a million directions, constantly switching between “CEO mode” and “mom mode.” There are client calls that get interrupted by snack requests, emails that need to be answered during school pickup, and days when work doesn’t stop just because bedtime does.
I’m back in the treatment room a few days a week, and while my heart feels so full, I can’t deny the anxiety that comes with it. My mind is constantly racing—thinking about the future, the unexpected medical emergencies, the possibility of having to step away for a sick child or another hospital stay with my youngest. I want to be a dependable provider and team member in my own business, not someone who seems unreliable or inconsistent. But the reality is, motherhood often forces us to navigate that fine line. As women, we juggle so much—countless unseen tasks and responsibilities that often go unnoticed, yet they weigh on us daily.
The biggest challenge? The guilt. When you’re with your kids, you feel like you should be working. When you’re working, you feel like you should be with your kids. It’s a never-ending balancing act that no one really prepares you for.
But despite the chaos, the rewards outweigh the challenges tenfold. Owning a business has given me the flexibility to create a life that works for my family—one where I don’t have to choose between being successful and being present. I can show up for my kids while also building something I love.
And the best part? They see it all. They see the hard work, the perseverance, the wins, and even the struggles. They’re learning firsthand that dreams take work but are always worth it. They see that success isn’t about luck—it’s about showing up, pushing through, and believing in yourself.
So, while the balance isn’t always perfect (and let’s be real, it rarely is), I wouldn’t trade it for anything. The long days, the busy seasons, the constant juggling—it’s all worth it because I’m building something for my family, with my family in mind.
And if nothing else, at least my kids will grow up knowing one thing for sure:
Mom works hard—but she does it with love, passion, and purpose. ❤️
The Bigger Picture
At the end of the day, being a working parent is about more than just providing financially—it’s about setting an example. It’s about showing our kids that we can be dedicated to both our careers and our families.
So, if you ever feel guilty about the time spent working, remember this: They’re watching, they’re learning, and they’re proud of you.