For many parents, particularly those balancing busy careers alongside family life, the idea of “work–life balance” can feel more like a myth than a goal. Between school runs, packed diaries, household responsibilities, and the constant mental load that comes with parenting, it often feels as though everything is happening at once.
This was the focus of a recent conversation within the NW8 parent community led by Fanny Di Domenicantonio, Director of Fox & Cubs and a London-based mother of three. Her message was refreshingly honest: the aim is not perfect balance, but alignment finding ways for work and family life to support one another, rather than compete.
There is no such thing as a perfect balance and that is reassuring
One of the key points shared was that work and family life are rarely divided neatly. Some weeks, work naturally takes priority; at other times, family needs more attention. This is not a sign that something is wrong it is simply the reality of modern family life.
Many parents carry unnecessary guilt, feeling that success in one area automatically means falling short in another. Acknowledging that balance shifts over time can be freeing. It allows parents to focus on what matters most in each phase, rather than striving for an unrealistic ideal.
When everything feels urgent, nothing truly is
A feeling many parents recognise is that everything seems important, all the time. When this happens, decision-making becomes overwhelming and daily life feels heavier than it needs to be.
A helpful shift is learning to prioritise and to accept that deciding what not to do can be just as important as deciding what to focus on. This might mean simplifying routines, letting go of unnecessary commitments, or being more intentional about how time and energy are spent.
Planning ahead, even in small ways, can significantly reduce stress and help parents feel more in control.
The power of a support system
One of the most reassuring messages from the discussion was the importance of support and the reminder that no family thrives in isolation.
Support looks different for every household. For some, it comes from a partner sharing responsibilities more intentionally. For others, it may involve extended family, trusted friends, or other parents within the community. For many working families, professional childcare support plays a key role in creating stability and continuity at home.
Having reliable, trusted support in place allows parents to focus fully on work when needed, while knowing that their children’s routines and wellbeing are being carefully looked after.
Creating systems at home that reduce pressure
Rather than reacting to each day as it comes, setting up simple systems at home can make a noticeable difference. Predictable routines, shared responsibilities, and clear expectations help children feel secure and help parents navigate busy schedules more calmly.
Involving children in age-appropriate tasks encourages independence and reduces pressure on parents. These systems do not need to be rigid; they simply provide a framework that supports family life and reduces daily friction.
Remembering the parent behind the parent
A moment that resonated strongly with many parents was the reminder that parental wellbeing matters. Constantly running on empty benefits no one not parents, not children, and not workplaces.
Making space for rest, a balanced weekend, or moments to reset is not indulgent. Parents who feel supported and rested are better equipped to manage challenges with patience and perspective.
A trusted partner within the NW8 community
As the NW8 community continues to grow, having trusted, local partners makes a real difference for families navigating busy lives. Fox & Cubs has recently become part of the NW8 network, supporting families in the area with thoughtful, long-term childcare solutions.
For many parents, knowing that there is a reliable partner nearby one that understands the realities of working parenthood and values continuity, discretion, and trust brings reassurance and peace of mind.
A conversation rooted in real life
What made this discussion particularly meaningful was its honesty. There were no quick fixes or one-size-fits-all answers just practical ideas grounded in lived experience.
As Fanny Di Domenicantonio shared, thriving as a working parent is not about doing more, but about doing things differently: accepting support, setting boundaries, and recognising that life comes in phases.
About Fox & Cubs
Fox & Cubs Nanny & Private Staff Agency, trusted by London families since 2012 🦊
Fox & Cubs Nanny & Private Staff Agency has been supporting families in London and internationally since 2012. The agency specialises in the placement of experienced nannies, maternity nurses, and household staff, with a focus on long-term, family-centred solutions.
Led by Fanny Di Domenicantonio, a London-based mother of three and childcare industry expert, Fox & Cubs is known for its discreet service, rigorous vetting standards, and bespoke approach.
Visit: www.foxandcubs.com
Or their sister agency if you are looking for a French nanny: www.french-nanny-london.co.uk
🦊 Email: families@foxandcubs.com
📞 Telephone: 020 3838 2588
