Supermum: Caroline Harroch - Micasso Baby Club

Supermum Caroline Harroch

How does Nicholas enjoy his music classes as a toddler, who has been in the Micasso Baby Club programme since he was 6 months old?

Even before he was born , Nicholas was a music lover, as I exposed him to all kinds of music while pregnant! I am a big believer that music has a profoundly positive influence on babies so when I came across Micasso Baby Club I couldn’t have been more thrilled and I would strongly recommend it to any new parent! Nicholas loved every class that he attended. I could actually witness how he benefited from attending the classes over time: his motor skills were improved, he learnt how to socialize with other babies and he was able to memorize certain songs. The teachers are all wonderful and they bring so much love and care to the class. It is a true pleasure not only for the children but also for the parents.

You work for The Wellbeing Project, can you tell our community of parents what its mission is?

The Wellbeing Project is catalysing a culture of inner well-being for all changemakers. We work to normalize and create accessibility to well-being for everyone working on the frontlines of social change.

Today, we are a movement of over 400 leading global and regional organizations playing a critical role in mainstreaming inner well-being.

What is your personal journey that led you to this project?

I started my career in Finance in New York and then London. Most recently, I was a Principal at a private equity firm called Blackstone. During that time, I discovered my own well-being tools in order to focus on my work life balance. I decided to change my path after a year-long sabbatical when I travelled the world and further explored my inner world. That journey led me to The Wellbeing Project where I am currently the Corporate project Lead. I now have the privilege and pleasure of weaving my personal interests, passions and values into my professional life.

Would you say that Micasso Baby Club enhances the well-being of parents on parental leave? If so, could you explain how?

Definitely , Becoming a parent is a life changing experience which can have an impact on your mental health. Micasso Baby Club provides you with a wonderful opportunity to connect with your child as well as mingle with other like-minded parents!

Do you think mothers and fathers can take a career break to take care of their little ones and then smoothly come back into professional life?

If there is a will there’s a way. If it is your wish to take a career break and spend time with your children then I believe that you can always find a way to make it work. From my experience, it is important to stay connected with your industry as well as stay informed. Make sure to read a lot when you can;) Maintain and nurture certain professional relationships and seek a mentor.

In the early days of motherhood, given you are a mother of two, would you say that Micasso Baby Club made it easier for you to socialise with other parents with babies of the same age as yours?

Yes, I actually have a few friends that are also in Micasso Baby Club so it was always a great way to connect with them. We would often go for a walk or coffee after the classes – our children also become closer! I would highly recommend Micasso Baby Club to new moms that are new in town as it’s a great way to meet other parents!

After class, did you notice feeling more at pease and connected to your child?

Yes, I always looked forward to the classes with my sons as it’s a wonderful bonding moment with them. Stepping into a music class is like stepping into a little bubble of happiness! You feel uplifted and connected to your heart.

What would be your best advice for any ambitious working woman who wants to start a family, just the way you are doing?

Be compassionate with yourself. Be realistic. Be patient. And surround yourself with the right support system. Motherhood is a time when one is most open both physically and emotionally. Acknowledging the complexities that families face is important

Someone once told me that your priority should always be to yourself first, then your partner and lastly to your children. Self care is really important when becoming a mother. It is very easy to lose yourself but if you are not well then chances are that your loved ones are suffering too. Make time for your partner and invest in your relationship. It is so important to prioritize yourself and your partner as you will be naturally inclined to nurture your children.

Is there any advice you would like to give our amazing community of parents in this matter?

The days are long but the years are short… Parenthood thus far is the most humbling yet beautiful and rich path. Enjoy it!