Where Work Meets Heart: A Mental Health Perspective on BYCTWD
Compiled by providers at TRMC, Edited by Stephanie Barbosa April 2025
Each year, Bring Your Child to Work Day rolls around with the promise of fun field trips and office snacks—but beyond the novelty lies a deeper opportunity. This day isn't just about breaking routine. It’s a meaningful chance to strengthen the parent-child bond, nurture emotional awareness, and support mental health for both children and adults. This year
This year’s event at TMRC was a powerful reminder of that purpose, filled with laughter, curiosity, and reflection.
"My daughter came to BYCTWD last year and was very excited to come again this year. I love that she can get a sense of where I go every day and a little sense of what I do (I don't think she totally understands the concept of therapy yet... she asked the panel what their favorite food was—haha!). This year I decided to reschedule clients so that I could be present with her and enjoy the day too. After all of the activities, we went for a nature walk and she said, 'this is the bestest day ever.' I truly appreciate that TMRC makes BYCTWD such a special day for our kids!" – [Sara Roser], [LCSW]
1. Understanding Builds Empathy
From a young age, kids often wonder: What does mom or dad do all day? Seeing the workplace firsthand gives them context. When children witness the responsibilities, challenges, and accomplishments their parents navigate, it builds empathy. They begin to understand that work isn’t just about meetings and emails—it’s about problem-solving, communication, and sometimes, stress.
This exposure also broadens their understanding of what therapy is and why it matters.
"My granddaughters really enjoyed it. Events like this are excellent for giving kids exposure to careers that they may not know anything about, and help prepare them for their own career decisions as they grow up and eventually have to think about their path in life. And the mock counseling sessions were a great idea, helping to make therapy less of a scary thing for kids that might need it someday." – [Maria Palamara], [LPC]
2. It Opens the Door to Mental Health Conversations
When children witness how their parents interact with clients or colleagues—and how they take care of themselves—it becomes easier for them to ask meaningful questions.
One child’s innocent curiosity during a panel discussion reminded us all how naturally children connect to others, even when they don’t fully understand adult roles.
3. Fosters Connection in a Busy World
Modern life leaves little room for deep, intentional connection. Taking just one day to slow down and be fully present can make a lasting impression.
"This year I decided to reschedule clients so that I could be present with her and enjoy the day too." – [Sara Roser], [LCSW]
That decision—to be present—echoed the true spirit of the day: connection, not just activity.
4. Helps Kids Envision Their Future with Confidence
When children experience real-world environments, they begin to picture themselves in those spaces. Career exposure at a young age is empowering.
"Events like this are excellent for giving kids exposure to careers that they may not know anything about."
Whether it’s therapy, administration, tech, or support roles, children begin to see what's possible—and what it takes.
5. A Reminder for Parents, Too
For many professionals, the day is also a mirror. Watching their children engage in their world often inspires self-reflection and a renewed commitment to emotional presence—both at home and at work.
In Conclusion
“Bring Your Child to Work Day” isn’t just a fun detour from routine. It’s a mental health check-in, a bridge between generations, and a chance to build emotional resilience and connection. The experiences shared by our team at TMRC this year underscore just how meaningful it can be—not just for the kids, but for the parents and professionals they look up to.
