If you’ve chosen to work from home, chances are you work with kids in the house. from home with the kids, there’s no doubt it can be a challenge. Any work-at-home parent can totally relate to the never-ending list of distractions that come with having kids around. But, believe it or not, there are some ways you can make it work.
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It might take a little bit of creativity and a lot of patience, but it is possible to get your work done while also taking care of your kids. Here are some of the best ways to make it happen!
#1 – Get Organized to Work With Kids in the House
People who work from home with kids know that organization is key. If your work area is cluttered and messy, it will be harder to focus on your work. If you don’t have an organized space, now is to create one.
You might need to get a little bit creative, but try to find a place in your home where you can set up a workstation that is just for you. This way, when you sit down to work, you will be in an environment conducive to productivity.
Of course, there will be days when the schedule gets thrown off, but having some structure will make everyone’s life a little bit easier.
#2 – Plan Engaging Activities and Plan Ahead to Work With Kids in the House
If you’re going to be working at home with your kids, it is important to have some activities planned to keep them occupied. Depending on the ages of your children, this could look different. Consider having some coloring sheets or other simple crafts available for younger kids. For older kids, you might want to have some puzzles or other quiet activities that they can do while you’re working.
It is also a good idea to plan ahead as much as possible. If you know you have a big project due at the end of the week, try to get as much done as you can during the week so that you don’t have to work too much on the weekend.
And, if you have to work on the weekend, try to make it fun for the kids by doing something special with them during the day, so they know you’re still spending time with them even though you have to work.
#3 – Create Daily Outline and Routine to Work With Kids in the House
To be productive when working from home with kids, it is helpful to create a daily outline of what needs to be accomplished, both for you and your children. This will help you stay focused on your work and ensure that your kids get the attention they need.
A daily outline will look different for everyone, but it should include things like what work needs to be done, what activities need to be done with the kids, and what household tasks need to be completed.
Creating a routine is also important since kids thrive off of routine and predictability. If they know what to expect each day, it will be easier for them to adjust to having you around while you’re working.
#4 – Set Ground Rules and Expectations to Work With Kids in the House
Rules and expectations are a must when working from home with kids. Some basic ground rules might include things like no interrupting mommy while she’s working, no yelling, and no climbing on the furniture. Of course, your rules will depend on your individual situation, but the important thing is to have them.
It is also important to set expectations with your kids. Explain to them that even though you’re home, you’re still working and they need to respect your work time. If they know what to expect, they are more likely to behave accordingly.
#5 – Prioritize Your Time to Work With Kids in the House
When you need to get on with an important project, it can be tempting to do it all at once. However, this is usually not possible or realistic when you have kids in the house. Instead of trying to do too much at once, focus on one task and give it your full attention. Once that task is done, you can move on to the next thing on your list.
You’ll find that you are actually more productive when you focus on one thing at a time and give it your full attention. Plus, this will help prevent you from getting overwhelmed by everything you need to do.
#6 – Take Advantage of Nap Times to Work With Kids in the House
If your kids are still quite young, take advantage of their nap times — which are roughly two hours long — to get as much work done as possible so that you can have some free time later on.
If your kids are older and don’t take naps, make sure you take advantage of any quiet time they have — while they’re watching a movie or playing quietly by themselves — to get some work done. This is usually the only time you’ll have to yourself, so it’s important to use it wisely.
#7 – Utilize Technology to Work With Kids in the House
Normally, you try to limit your child’s exposure to technology. However, when you’re working from home, technology can actually be your friend.
There are tons of great educational apps and websites that your kids can use to stay busy while you’re working. Look for things that are age-appropriate and that will keep your kids engaged. Some of our favorites include the Starfall app for younger kids and the National Geographic Kids website for older kids.
You can also set up a movie or show for your kids to watch while you’re working. Just make sure it’s something that’s appropriate and that won’t distract you too much. This will keep them occupied for a longer period of time, allowing you to take care of what you need to do.
The Bottom Line
Working from home and having the kids home all day is a new experience for both you and them. It will undoubtedly be challenging at times, but it is possible to make it work. Follow the above tips to make it that little bit easier during these difficult times.
