The joys of being a parent are plenty. You get to raise a human being, watch them grow and learn, and experience all of life’s little moments with them. But as anyone who has children knows, parenting is also a lot of work. And when you add in the task of working from home while also caring for young children, it can sometimes feel like you’re trying to do the impossible.
Luckily, it is possible. Here are a few tips on how to make it happen.
Create a Schedule
Kids thrive on routine, so creating a schedule for the day can be helpful for both you and them.
Where possible, try to match your work schedule with your child’s nap or school schedule. This way you can have some uninterrupted time to get work done while they’re sleeping or occupied.
It’s also important to keep in mind that kids have a shorter attention span than adults, so don’t expect to be able to work for long periods without taking a break. Schedule some short breaks throughout the day where you can play with your child or just take a few minutes to relax.
Create a Makeshift Study
Setting boundaries is one of the first things you’ll need to do when working from home with young children and one way to help set boundaries is to create a makeshift study space or office.
This can be anywhere in your house where you can close the door and have some privacy. Let your kids know that when that door is shut, you’re working and don’t want be disturbed unless it’s an emergency.
If you don’t have an extra room that you can use, get creative with where you set up your workstation. A corner of the living room or kitchen table can work just as well.
Get Help From Others
If you’re struggling, don’t be afraid to ask for help from others. This could mean hiring a babysitter or nanny to watch your kids for a few hours each day or asking family or friends to come over and help out.
It can also be helpful to join a co-working space or mother’s group where you can work alongside other watchful parents. This can provide some likely much-needed social interaction and allow you to get some work done at the same time.
Take Advantage of Technology
There are a lot of great tools and resources available online that make working from home with young children easier. If you need to hold a meeting, for instance, there are apps like Zoom or Skype that allow you to do so without having to leave the house.
There are also several websites and apps that offer educational resources for kids. These can be helpful for keeping them occupied while you’re working.
Working from home with young children can be challenging, but it is possible to get work done and still be a great parent. By making a schedule, setting boundaries, and getting help from others, you can find a way to make it work for you and your family.
