Must-Haves for Working Parents

Running a business, while parenting small humans, is not an easy task. It requires a lot of flexibility and balance.

As a virtual assistant for photographers, I've come to find a few of my must-haves for working parents that help me get more balanced. These items act as tools that I keep in my toolkit to support me. They help make my life easier, so that I can be the BEST mama to my littles and virtual assistant to ALL of my amazing clients! And if you know me at all, you know I’m all about practicality, so let’s jump in:

two boys looking for Easter eggs by a Virtual assistant — Must-Haves for Working Parents

**no links are affiliate links**

This Backpack

I loved it so much that I purchased it as gifts for other parents, twice! It's got all the room in the world, tons of organization, waterproof compartments, and a built-in portable charger. Replace your diaper bag with this, or use it as a carry-on!

A Car Trunk Organizer

Speaking of diaper bags... I hate them and stop using them as soon as possible lol Once the baby is old enough I stock an organizer in my trunk with essentials so I can "shop my car" while I'm out and about!

Stroller

This is my lifeline! I didn't have one with our first child. But we use this every single day. Especially if you have mobility limitations like me, it is the perfect lightweight stroller, and it's only $99!!

And, my toddler can ride on the front too, so it acts as a double stroller in a pinch. plus it folds up and down with one hand. Perfect for airports or running errands.

Earbuds

These earbuds are perfect for on the go! I like to be able to zone out the noise or listen to my podcasts on walks etc. They're only $20 too. Which is perfect because I lose earbuds constantly haha

Sleep Gummies

Sleep is essential to me. #1 self-care priority as a working parent. If I don't sleep, everything else falls to shit.

These gummies have helped me easily fall asleep so I get the most rest possible. I take 1/2, so the bottle lasts me a long time!

Bluetooth Eyemask

Speaking of sleep... this bluetooth eye mask is ESSENTIAL in our house. It blocks out all light and I can listen to white noise. I used it during labor in the hospital too and it was the besttttt. Run don’t walk.

Slides

I think every parent needs a good pair of comfortable slides. I'm already on my second pair, and I wear them constantly. They are comfortable and perfect for going to the playground or running out for school pickup.

Tonies Box

I never would have gotten this if it wasn't a gift from grandma... but, the Tonies box has become a staple around our house. Our toddler listens to it every single day, and it reduces screen time. Plus the little figurines are perfect Christmas/birthday gifts to add to their collection!

Naturium Bodywash

You can get them at Target, but they're just that little body wash (and lotion) that is slightly more elevated. Their skincare is great too!

Owala Freesip

The way to my heart is through Owala. I've always been a water bottle girlie, after being in the sports industry for 6 years. But Owala takes the game.
Also, it has no lead (looking at you Stanley), and the pop-up handle makes it ESSENTIAL for when you're trying to herd toddlers into the car with their 50,000 bags. I have since purchased extras for me, one for my husband and one for my toddler. Go get some now!

two boys sitting in the bluebonnets in Austin, Texas — Parenting and running a small business takes a lot of modifications, flexibility, and support.

Whether your support comes from a village, or you have built it yourself - you're setting yourself up for success. Hope these Must-Haves for Working Parents was helpful.