Holding Space, Not Just Time: Emotional Labour in Split-Shift Work

Split shifts are more than early mornings and late afternoons — they are emotional marathons.In Episode 12, Jamie brings voice to the invisible work of school-age educators who live in the “in-between” hours: the early starts, the long breaks no one understands, and the emotional balancing act required to show up twice a day with presence, patience, and heart.With honesty, humour, and a whole lot of compassion, Jamie explores the emotional labour behind split-shift work — the self-regulation, the empathy, the attunement, and the quiet resilience that never makes it onto a schedule.She unpacks what research says about co-regulation and attachment during transitions, reflects on the realities of caregiver fatigue, and validates the educators who feel overstretched yet continue to hold space for children with incredible care.This episode is a grounding reminder that school-age educators don’t just “cover hours” — they hold space, build belonging, and create emotional safety in the margins of the day.Whether you’re an educator, a supervisor, or someone who has ever felt unseen in your split-shift role, this episode will make you feel understood, valued, and profoundly proud of the work you do.