Working from home has become a familiar standard the world over during this time. In one way it’s the best of both worlds – the ability to be available for one’s kids, while still bringing in a pay check. However, having your home be your office can be challenging – particularly with a toddler around creating havoc. Your little one needs constant attention, and unlike an infant, your toddler is mobile.
Here are 6 tips for working from home with a toddler:
Start the day early
The best way to work with a toddler at home is by getting as much done as possible when they aren’t around. Setting an alarm a couple of hours before they are up for the day, tackling your larger projects during that time or organizing and planning your day really helps.
Create a schedule
It’s important to structure your day carefully, so that you can plan your work around being there for your little one. Line up your projects according to the time you may have – how will you engage your child while you tackle a Skype meeting? When will you return calls? What can you accomplish during naptime? It’s important to work smarter, not harder – you’ll end up getting more done.
Make them feel important
If possible, try to spend some quality time with your child in the mornings. Perhaps you could do an exercise or activity together. If you start the day spending time with your child, they will feel important and tend to be less needy during the day, which means that you’ll be able to get more done.
Take advantage of naptime
Naptime is not only important for your little one’s health and development, it could help you be more productive while working from home too. Whether your toddler sleeps for one hour or two, you could use that time to finish your large assignments requiring the most focus and concentration.
Keep them busy
Toddlers love to help out at home. Give them tasks to do during the day – even if it’s just practicing scribbling. Look for activities and exercises that you can line up for your child to help keep them productively engaged. If your child has something to look forward to, they are less likely to interrupt you. You could also try setting up an activity spot near your workspace, so that your little one feels as if they have their own designated place to do projects while you catch up on work.
Be flexible
It can be frustrating trying to be productive when you’re a work from home parent – especially on days when your child is extra fussy. Being flexible goes a long way. Plan for interruptions, try to get your work done in blocks of time, and tend to your child’s needs in between. You’ll need to find a balance of patience and acceptance! Plan their day carefully too, and work around meal times, naptime and quality time.
We hope that this helps your working from home with toddlers easier!