How to balance work and caring for a child with disabilities

How to balance work and caring for a child with disabilities.

One of the key questions that parents of children with disabilities begin to worry about when deciding whether to return to their job or start working is how to effectively and fairly combine work and childcare.

Spoiler: this post will not provide a universal solution to this issue — a magical fix. Just as there are no two identical cases of cerebral palsy or epilepsy, meaning each child’s treatment is unique, there is no one-size-fits-all formula for balancing these two aspects of a parent’s life. However, you can learn to maintain balance as if on a wide skateboard rather than on a tightrope, risking a fall.  

First, parents should focus on the work format (whether it is in-office employment for a specific employer, remote work from home, or freelance) and the schedule (full-time, part-time, flexible, or staggered hours). Do not hide your family circumstances from your employer, as this will ensure smooth communication and help avoid misunderstandings. Look for work where results are valued over hours worked. This will give you more flexibility in planning your time.  

The next step is developing effective time management. Try to optimize your work process. Set clear priorities in your tasks, focusing on the most important ones. Use specific techniques to increase productivity in a short period, such as the "Pomodoro" technique. Why is it effective? Break your work into key tasks and focus on each for 25 minutes (this is one “Pomodoro”), using a timer. Work until the timer rings, then mark where you stopped and take a short 3-5 minute break. After every fourth "Pomodoro," take a longer break (15-30 minutes).  

At first glance, this may seem like a game, but it’s proven that this technique helps focus on tasks, reduces mental fatigue, and is invaluable for people working from home or with a flexible schedule, as it structures work time and increases productivity. For parents of children with disabilities, this technique can be adapted, for example, by reducing the "Pomodoro" length to 15-20 minutes or extending breaks to care for the child. Give it a try—it works!  
Another important aspect of balancing work and caregiving is dividing responsibilities within the family. Don’t try to do everything yourself, distrusting others. Involve all family members and create a schedule where everyone, to the best of their abilities, can fulfill their duties on specific days or hours. Within your child’s capabilities, teach them self-care skills, which can lighten your load and provide more time for work. Also, review your daily household tasks, delegating some to your loved ones. Learning to delegate is crucial in this case.  

If you work from home, set up a separate workspace that allows you to focus on tasks while staying close to your child. Use modern technology to monitor your child’s condition during work (video baby monitors, special equipment to track vital signs, emergency alert systems, etc.). Establish rules for other family members regarding your work time and space.  

Explore short- or long-term professional childcare options, including specialized daycare centers or local rehabilitation centers (many offer several hours of care programs), or consider hiring a personal assistant who can help with the child and some work tasks, or a nurse. This requires some financial investment, but it also allows you to focus on work, knowing your child is cared for. Try to approach this question thoughtfully and don’t dismiss it as impossible.  

Don’t forget about existing support groups for parents of children with disabilities. These can be online chats or forums or offline meetings. They are a great source of emotional support, practical advice, and shared experiences.  

Learn your rights as a worker and a parent of a child with disabilities. Even a basic understanding of the law can help you advocate for your interests at work. Pay attention to the Ukrainian Law "On Leave" (right to an additional 10-day paid leave annually, excluding holidays (Art. 19); unpaid leave for up to 30 days annually (Art. 25)), the Ukrainian Law "On the Fundamentals of Social Protection of Persons with Disabilities in Ukraine" (prohibition of refusal to hire or dismissal of parents of children with disabilities due to the child’s disability (Art. 17)), the Ukrainian Law "On Occupational Safety and Health" (prohibition of assigning women with children with disabilities to night shifts, overtime, or weekend work without their consent (Art. 10)), the Ukrainian Tax Code (right to a tax benefit for parents of children with disabilities (Art. 169)), and the Ukrainian Law "On State Social Assistance for Persons with Disabilities from Childhood and Children with Disabilities," among others.  

Explore all available state/regional support programs for families with children with disabilities. These may include financial assistance, rehabilitation services, special education, and more. Don’t hesitate to seek the assistance you are entitled to from local authorities, social protection representatives, and palliative care services.  

Don’t forget about your health and emotional well-being. Regularly assess your stress and fatigue levels. Find time for rest, exercise, and hobbies. Don’t neglect your emotional health. If necessary, consult a psychologist or therapist. Emotionally stable parents are better equipped to handle challenges, adapt more quickly, and maintain an effective balance between work and caring for a child with special needs.  

Remember that every family is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. Experiment with different approaches to find the optimal balance between work and caring for your child. Be patient with yourself and celebrate even small successes in the process.  

This publication was prepared with the financial support of the German Marshall Fund of the United States. Its content is the sole responsibility of the NGO “Epiprosvita” and does not reflect the position of the German Marshall Fund.