Working Together to Care for Our Kids

Flexibility in the workspace is a broad phrase that means different things to different people. For many parents, it means access to childcare. Larger employers in the US and Europe may offer on-site daycare facilities, or support families with backup childcare, stipends and other care-related benefits. But freelancers and employees at smaller companies are largely on their own. 

The good news is that a new era of work has arrived and a growing number of coworking operators are offering childcare services. Some have introduced childcare services of their own, others are partnering with existing certified care providers. Some adhere to specific pedagogies, others staff professional caregivers. These offerings remain particularly important to women, who continue to play a bigger role in family caregiving responsibilities.

At LiquidSpace, we recognize that one of the biggest barriers for working parents remains lack of access to affordable, flexible childcare. Our goal is to provide a diverse network of coworking spaces on our platform that support work in all of its forms and that includes options supportive of the needs of hardworking working moms and dads. 

They say it takes a village to raise a child. We say these terrific family-friendly, coworking options are doing their part. 

Here are a few of our favorites: 

1) OneSpace Odlum, Vancouver CA

OneSpace Odlum is a bright, welcoming space, with large south-facing windows, original hardwood floss, and double height ceilings. On-site childcare is offered in its Children’s Atelier. Similar to IKEA’s Smalland parents must stay onsite. Available for children aged 8 months to 5 years. 

The Children’s Atelier is open from Monday to Friday, 8:30am - 12:30pm and Tuesday and Thursday 2-5pm. Morning and afternoon bookings are available. Minimum 2-hour booking for childcare. Bookings also include free access to the gym, lounges, meeting room, quiet room, and kitchen amenities. 

Learn more about OneSpace here. 

2.) Work ‘n ‘Kid, Berlin, Germany 

Work ’n ’Kid is a cozy, family friendly coworking space with optional childcare located in vivid Friedrichshain. Founded on the principle of Work/Child Balance, each Work ’n Kid coworking space strives to create a warm, family friendly environment that supports the parent’s and child’s needs. The result is a win-win for workers, families and businesses.

Work ’n ’Kid is oriented toward the Montessori method of education, which seeks to develop natural interests and activities to advance the child’s development. Children are lovingly cared for in close proximity to their parents.

Learn more about Work ‘n ‘Kid here. 

3.) Thrive Coworking / Columbus, OH

Thrive believes that people work better together. Every Thrive space is infused with a sense of purpose and style, and a bevy of brand new coworking spaces in Columbus, Ohio, offer affordable pricing for on-site childcare – perfect for anyone with a task at hand and a tyke in tow.  

In addition there are standard private office and desk offerings, a flexible event space, a cafe and brewery, food trucks, local art, fitness and wellness classes, and more.

Learn more about Thrive here.

4.) The Pillar / Lafayette, CA

At Pillar, you’ll have access to a host of amenities to improve productivity and increase efficiency when needed – and that includes childcare services for children up to the age of seven. 

Conveniently located in the heart of downtown Lafayette, near BART and Highway 24, and surrounded by local eateries, Pillar Cowork is a 5,000 sq ft sleek and flexible workspace in Lafayette. Its modern, stylishly appointed spaces are perfect for concentration and collaboration. Dedicated desks include a locked filing cabinet and a height adjustable Herman Miller Sayl chair. 

Learn more about The Pillar here.

5.) The Cube / Baltimore, MD

As the largest, black-owned coworking space operator in the U.S. and Maryland’s first coworking space, Cube’s groundbreaking facility not only provides coworking memberships and private offices, its family-friendly focus helps parents and entrepreneurs pursue their dreams as well. 

The 15,000 sq ft space offers several communal spaces to work. Cube’s Playroom is designed to give parents both the space and the peace and quiet they need to get work done. The Playroom is equipped with a CPR certified staff, plenty of eco-friendly toys and perfect for children through seven years of age. 

Learn more about The Cube here.

6) Lodgic EveryDay Community / Madison, WI

Lodgic Everyday Community combines hospitality-forward workspace, flexible childcare, all-day food and drink and memorable event experiences under one roof. 

Lodgic Kids Camp offers licensed childcare that flexes to the needs of modern-day working families. Full-time, part-time and hourly care is available for children up to 12 years of age. Its unique philosophy comes from more than 100 years of caring for children and balances learning and fun throughout the day.

The service is ideal for families in need of childcare, preschool and/or assistance with remote learning facilitation. Parents, meanwhile, enjoy an amenity rich work environment ideal for solo professionals and entrepreneurs. The event hall includes a private wet bar, indoor/outdoor access to an expansive patio, floor-to-ceiling windows and best-in-class management professionals.