Whether you’re entering the workforce because you have to or because you love working, if you have kids, it can be a challenge. Working from home makes it easier, but it doesn’t erase all of the challenges you’ll face, especially if you have young kids. As you tackle the daily ins and outs of both parenting and working, consider these tips to help you master both.
- Don’t Let the TV Babysit (at least not all the time)
Kids love watching television, and most of them would do it pretty much all day if you let them. But we’ve all read about the negative results of letting your kids watch too much television, and you don’t want that to happen. Instead, find activities that your kids can do independently that will keep them happy, such as interactive learning activities, arts and crafts, or karaoke.
- Plan Backup Childcare
You may be home, but that doesn’t mean you’ll always have time to take care of your kids. There will be times when you have so much to do, taking time for your kids will prove extremely difficult. Have a backup child care plan in place just in case you get too overwhelmed with work to really be there with your kids. Find a daycare or childcare provider who will be willing to take your kids at a moment’s notice if need be.
- Schedule It Out
Kids thrive on schedules, and you will too. Set up a consistent schedule to keep your kids busy and do the same thing every day to cement the pattern. For example, start with breakfast, then give them an hour to watch cartoons, then an hour to play quietly in their rooms, then naptime, etc. Your kids will soon be accustomed to the schedule and expect the next activity when it comes, allowing you to do work while they’re busy.
- Take Time for the Kids
Don’t let work consume your time so much that you never spend time with your kids. If your kids are at home during the day, take frequent breaks, if possible, to play with them. Also be sure to make time to go to events and activities your kids are a part of. Use the flexibility of working at home to your advantage and spend the important time with your kids.
- Use Naptime
With working, keeping up with kids, cleaning, and preventing sickness, how will you get everything done? Use naptime. Naptime is your best friend. If used wisely, it can be a great time to catch up on work or do a little extra cleaning. Likewise, getting your kids to bed on time will give you a few extra kid-free hours to catch up as well.
With a little intuition and some careful planning, you can go from frazzled mom to super mom!