I am convinced that much of the success of Schmidt’s Naturals can be attributed to my 7‑year-old son, Oliver. In fact, Schmidt’s was born with him in the womb, as I was growing more mindful of using healthy products and eating the right foods while pregnant. Today, our family of three works as a team in all aspects of life.
Jaime and her son, Oliver
Photos courtesy of Jaime Schmidt
1. Be inspired by your child’s free thinking
You may be surprised at how much you can learn from your child’s perspective. I love soliciting my son’s feedback on a product idea or scent. He is always eager to be involved in this part of my life.
2. Establish routines and stick to them as much as you can
Having rituals to look forward to keeps everyone excited and engaged as a family unit. Plus, kids feel secure when they know what is happening.
3. Attend all school events
My husband and I always clear our calendars to ensure we make it to our son’s school events. It’s so important to us not to miss a beat with what is happening in school, and he is proud to share everything he is working on with us. Oftentimes we are the only parent duo in attendance!
4. Check yourself
Recognize when you are taking your work-related stress out on your child. When patience begins to wear thin due to overload, step back. Also know when it is time to disconnect. Kids are good at letting you know when they feel you’re not fully engaged or are distracted at home.
5. Be an inspiration
There’s nothing more rewarding than being a superhero in the eyes of your child. Make your child proud, and teach them to speak in an informed way about what you do.
6. Keep your child grounded
My husband and I always make sure our son has a well-rounded perspective. It’s important to us that he understands our way is not the only way, and different people encounter unique challenges and successes.
7. Spoil… a little
It’s ok, your child deserves some special attention! I enjoy picking up little gifts when I travel for work, and it can be great way to introduce my son to customs and norms from the different places I visit.
8. Set boundaries
It’s important to be mindful of what you are sharing. I am careful about discussions around money or business operations. A child shouldn’t have to carry the burden of knowing too much. And kids have a tendency to absorb (and repeat!) information.
9. Allow kids to define themselves
Encourage your child to explore all of his or her creative or career-related aspirations. Similar to your own journey, their interests and goals will change along the way. Be flexible, and don’t try to control your child’s path.
10. Ensure alignment in your own values
To me, it’s important that I can feel proud of my work and what my company stands for. This enables me to communicate freely with my son about why I do what I do, and to live out these same values in my personal life.
