Please introduce yourself: Name, what do you do & how many children you have.
Hello! I’m Léa Henry, cofounder of Cocorio Creative Child Care, which matches families with fully vetted creative professionals including musicians, dancers, actors – and more, for smarter child care solutions. And I am a first time mum to my little boy, Rio!
How do you manage to juggle work and life balance as a mother?
‘Juggle’ is the word and sometimes I lose the plot! It’s no easy task excelling at work and being present for your kids, but it’s entirely possible with a good framework. I have a CocoRio sitter who comes 5 hours a day on weekdays, and it’s been an absolute blessing. In the mornings, I’m present with my son and get some work in during his morning nap, and in the afternoons, I have 5 hours straight of uninterrupted work, guilt-free, because I know Rio is engaging in all manner of fun and cultivating activities!
What top tips would you give to any working mum?
Accept help, and if it’s not offered, ask for it. Even though we’re super strong and great at multitasking, I find I need clear ‘work time’, ‘family time’ and ‘me /hubby time’. Also, try not to stress when things don’t go exactly to plan, it’ll happen more often than not and sometimes we just have to go with the flow!
What do you love most about London?
Do you have a favourite spot with your children? London is an absolutely magical city. For me, it’s all the culture, the arts, and the electric energy, it’s fantastic! My little dude was born during the first lockdown, so unfortunately I haven’t been able to explore much with him. But from the places we have managed to visit, Greenwich park has to be a firm favourite!
How do you define quality ‘me-time’?
For me, it’s more a feeling than something specific. So for instance, today my quality me-time may be going out for a long walk in the sunshine, and tomorrow it may be doing an online exercise class. As long as I’m not feeling rushed, I feel calm and I don’t have my phone in my hand, it qualifies.
What is your favourite & least favourite thing about parenthood?
There is so much I love about being ‘mama’, but the first thing that comes to mind is my little boy’s smile in the morning, nothing beats that little ball of energy who is just so happy to see me after a night’s sleep (or sometimes a night of no sleep).
I don’t like the judgement. There are countless parenting philosophies and ways of doing things and it often comes from a kind place, but when your ways are questioned it can make you doubt yourself and feel inadequate. I’m all for having open discussions and differing opinions, but I’ve seen it be done in less than pleasant ways. I find that unfair. We are all trying our best, and I truly believe we are the perfect parents for our children.
Tell us something people don’t know about you.
I love writing children’s songs! (And eating noodles for breakfast, not sure which is most interesting 😀 )
Given we are all about embracing Motherhood, what advice would you give a first time Mum?
Your baby thinks you are the most amazing person in the entire universe, so let go of any guilt you may be feeling, to them you’re doing an amazing job and if you’re trying your very best, then that’s all that matters.
I’m a mum and……
a business owner that is passionate about offering flexible child care solutions to mums to give them the support needed to excel in their careers, and in turn support the creative industries with meaningful part-time employment.
Finally, please let us know what you love most about Kensington Mums?
I love the community feel! When I read the articles I feel connected to other mums and like I’m a part of something great. Thank you for all the much needed content and keep doing what you do!
