# When work and family collide, flexibility becomes key Working parents' struggle for balance during COVID-19 - **Source:** [Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories](https://brifing.si/source/8b0f98da-d179-4c93-871f-7ac460bf9c61) - **Published:** 2026-07-19 - **Topic:** [Career Growth](https://brifing.si/c/growth) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/19230fa2-8dc6-47ce-ba4c-16d1b9776cc0 ## Shifting balances during the pandemic The closure of schools and disruption of childcare services during the COVID-19 pandemic left millions of working parents facing a tough choice. The struggle to balance work and family responsibilities brought radical changes to work arrangements. ## The importance of flexible work Flexible work arrangements offered by employers played a crucial role in helping parents meet both professional and personal responsibilities. Flexible hours and remote work options became essential tools for achieving work-life balance. ## Parents' preferences During the pandemic, working parents tended to prioritize jobs with more flexible conditions. This highlighted the importance of employers developing policies sensitive to employees' needs. ## The role of employers The pandemic showed that employers need to pay more attention to employees' personal lives. Flexible work policies can boost employee motivation and loyalty, contributing to long-term company success. ## Lessons for the future The COVID-19 experience demonstrated that flexible work models need to become permanent for sustainable work-life balance. This could offer new opportunities for both employees and employers. ## Achieving balance Flexible work arrangements are crucial in resolving conflicts between work and family. Adopting this approach post-pandemic could enhance employee well-being and productivity. ## Sources covering this story - https://phys.org/news/2026-07-family-collide-job-flexibility-adjusts.html — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._