How to Work From Home With Kids

Have you found yourself suddenly working from home? Things are crazy right now with the global pandemic we have found ourselves in, and many people are losing (temporarily) their jobs. If you’re one of the lucky ones that get to work from home, it may seem wonderful or maybe daunting.

Take it from someone who has worked from home for the last 13 years, it really can be both.

work from home

I love working from home but it took a while to get the hang of it, and still, it can be frustrating working from home, especially if you have kids at home. And right now, if you’re a parent of college-age or younger kids, you more than likely have kids at home… with colleges and schools all across the U.S. closing.

Don’t despair, though, you can do this.

Check out these tips on how to work from home to help keep your sanity.

How to Work From Home with Kids

Get Up Early or Stay Up Late

but first coffee

And we mean really early. This tip isn’t always the most popular one but as with working late, it’s much easier to get things done when the kids are asleep. If you prefer the working late option, like me (I’m a night owl) make sure you say goodnight to the kids and get straight to it – don’t be distracted by the TV.

Make a To-Do List

to-do-list

Never underestimate the power of a ‘to do’ list – if you do end up being dragged away from your work a ‘to do’ list will help you to get keep on track when you get back to it. You can use a planner and write out your to-do list or use programs or Google calendar like I do.

Act Like You Are In An Office

work from home

Just because you are working from home doesn’t mean you can take a break every 5 minutes – stick to a schedule that includes a lunch break. This also works for office wear, if you drop onto the sofa wearing your pajamas it’s highly unlikely that any work is going to be done. Cue a day in front of the TV.

Take Time Out

take time out

Don’t completely ignore the kids as that’ll leave them constantly vying for your attention, leaving you unable to get any work done! Schedule in fun breaks that’ll give you a rest and stop the kids from getting bored.

Let Older Siblings Help Out

working from home

If you have older children they can help out with younger children. Keeping them entertained and safe. Since most schools are out, even colleges, and we are practicing social distancing, there’s no reason older kids can’t help out while you are working.

Don’t Be Afraid to Let Them Play Alone

child blocks

If you have younger kids and as long as you’re around to keep an eye on them, let them play on their own for a while. I wouldn’t normally say sit them on the sofa and pop their favorite DVD on, instant silence, but during these uncertain times, I think it will be okay.

You can also take advantage of having your kids at home by hiring them to work for you. Check out the benefits of hiring your teenager (they can be younger, too).

work from home