Jennifer Hale has a straightforward message for all the working moms out there, many of whom have faced overwhelming challenges during the pandemic as they juggle work, home-schooling, and parenting. She believes it’s time to stop judging one another and instead offer support to those who are struggling. “When you think about what moms are going through, I’ve felt overwhelmed too, especially when my help moved in at the start of everything,” she shares.
According to the National Women’s Law Center, over two million women exited the workforce in 2020, largely because they needed to care for their children due to school closures. Hale acknowledges that she’s speaking from a place of privilege but emphasizes that she understands the pressure many mothers are under. As our world slowly begins to reopen, she expresses concern for her own children and the broader implications for kids everywhere.
“I believe that once kids can be together again, they’ll bounce back; they’re resilient. But this experience will have left its mark on them, and we need to be vigilant in supporting each other’s children and our own,” says the mother of three. “Many moms are returning to society feeling barely afloat, and that’s been incredibly tough.”
Hale’s social media presence serves as a reassuring digital space, mirroring her warm and friendly personality. During a recent video call, she even freshened up her makeup on camera, a testament to the new norms we’ve all adapted to. Her desire to spread joy is one of the reasons she produced and starred in the upcoming film Yes Day, where parents let their kids dictate the day’s activities. “I wanted to create something joyful, and I felt this was the perfect opportunity,” she explains.
In an interview, Hale discusses pandemic parenting, managing multiple responsibilities, and the comfort her family finds in watching The Office together. “We have dinner as a family every night, and the kids help with dishes in record time. Then we settle in for two episodes of The Office,” she shares, highlighting the importance of family time.
She expresses concern over kids returning to school, particularly for her youngest who seems anxious about the transition after such an extended period at home. “I worry how they’ll adjust emotionally, as some children may face new anxieties about being in a social environment again,” she admits.
To those moms who feel they are just getting by, Hale encourages understanding and compassion. “I don’t always have it all together. We need to be gentle with ourselves and recognize that we can’t expect the same from each other.”
As a working parent, she faces the dual challenge of managing her career and attending to the individual needs of her three children. “There are so many demands on my time, and it’s essential to carve out special one-on-one moments with each of them,” she explains.
In creating Yes Day, Hale took the initiative to pitch and produce the film, emphasizing her need for joy and connection as a person. “I felt this was a chance to spread happiness, and I think we achieved that,” she states.
Hale leads a structured life, making time for family outings and maintaining connections with friends through walks, even if they are masked. She’s also involved in charitable work, balancing her commitments with personal time. “It’s a whirlwind of activity, but I manage to fit it all in,” she says, reflecting on the hustle of her daily life.
For more on parenting dynamics, check out our other blog posts at Home Insemination Kit. If you’re looking for resources on home insemination, Make a Mom offers valuable information. Additionally, UCSF’s IVF resource is a great source for pregnancy and home insemination.
Summary
Jennifer Hale speaks candidly about the struggles of motherhood during the pandemic, urging support rather than judgment among moms. She shares her experiences of managing a busy household, balancing work, and prioritizing family time. Hale emphasizes the importance of compassion and understanding for all parents navigating these challenging times.
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