Kids and Work

[Brightblack]

I own a small graphic design company and have been in the design business almost 6 years. My GF and I just had a baby in July, he is 7 weeks now. I took a couple weeks off and though I would love to just hang with my son all day, I need to get back to work so my question is this:

Assuming I have no other options, how inappropriate is it to take my son to meetings?

Keep in mind I don't deal with many large, stuffy CEOs. Mostly local, mom and pop, small businesses at the moment. We can't currently afford daycare and even if we could I feel he is too young right now. No available grandparents near either.

I am looking for some advice and ideas on how to handle this situation. Thank you!

[Cre8tivDirector]

Um - no - no no no no. Believe me - no. There are very few exceptions - but don't mix your kids and your work. Just don't. Not at meetings anyway.

[Brightblack]

ok, thanks but you really didn't offer any other alternatives.

[Audentia]

Originally Posted by Brightblack

ok, thanks but you really didn't offer any other alternatives.

I'm not sure what other alternative there are... If you are not willing to have some sort of a dayhome, daycare or someone in your house to watch your child. Unfortunately...

I also agree with Creative I think it's a bad idea to have your child at a professional meeting. I understand that it's hard because you have to find a balance... I'm sorry I can't offer anything more concrete.
The only thing I can think of... that might be okay... but I'm not even sure is to have your clients come to your home office (assuming you have a good space for it) and try to book your meetings while your little one is sleeping so that you are not disturbed.

[Cre8tivDirector]

Sorry - good point. LOL. Does your GF work? I'm assuming so - since the childcare is falling on you. Looks like now is the time to look for some help - meetings usually only last what - an hour or so - so you'll have to find someone to cover during those times. 7 weeks is a bit young to be in daycare - i agree -however keep in mind again - if it's only for 1 hour - it might not be as bad or scary - although i think most day care places have age limitations and what not. Having a new baby is tough - lots to juggle...but in all seriousness - if you need the work and need the money - don't bring the little one along.

[Brightblack]

Thanks audentia. its not that I'm "not willing" to have daycare. Its that at the moment I can't afford it. I don't really like the idea of daycare for a 7 week old but I would do it if I had too and could afford it.

[Brightblack]

thanks for the more detailed reply Cre8tiv. I have a lot to think about here.

[Audentia]

Originally Posted by Brightblack

Thanks audentia. its not that I'm "not willing" to have daycare. Its that at the moment I can't afford it. I don't really like the idea of daycare for a 7 week old but I would do it if I had too and could afford it.

I know a few people who have someone come into their house say twice a week for a few hours to watch their little one (and ones that are small as yours). Often these are university or college students who need the money inbetween classes. Maybe this would be an option for you? Then you could see clients during those times and work being out of the house when they are there? (and it would be potentially affordable because it's only a few hours a week).

In Canada there is awesome site called canadiansitters.ca where people post up and get references for these types of gigs. I used to do this type of thing for a few years as extra income (cause GD just wasn't paying the bills) and it worked out great for me and for the families I worked for.
I know you're in the US. but maybe there is site similar to this or something in Florida that can connect you with people to help you out.

[Brightblack]

thanks for your help

[CkretAjint]

No local hourly baby sitters? Can you ask your neighbor and then cook them a nice meal in exchange??

I too agree, no kids at interviews.