Trying to work from home whilst juggling childcare can be a tricky balancing act. As a mum, you know how exhausting and demanding looking after little ones can be. At the same time, you need to be just as productive in your remote job as you would be in the office. It’s not easy, but these mum hacks can help make working from home more manageable.
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Schedule Your Day
The key to success is having a solid schedule in place. This allows you to plan your work tasks around childcare responsibilities. Make a daily agenda with set work blocks as well as breaks to care for your children. Try to stick to this schedule as closely as possible. Knowing what your day will look like ahead of time makes it easier to get things done. Just be sure to schedule in some wiggle room for the inevitable disruptions and toddler meltdowns!
Get Help When You Can
Don’t try to do it all yourself. If you have a partner at home, agree on a schedule where you can share childcare duties and alternate focused work time. If you’re solo parenting, consider options like family members who can help out or a mother’s helper to entertain your little ones a few hours a week. Childcare swaps with other work-from-home mums can also give you occasional breaks. Even an hour’s focused work time helps productivity. If fatigue is dragging you down, take some energy shots such as Lift Glucose.
Create Kid Zones
Having defined spaces for your kids to play and explore helps keep them happily occupied so you can work. Set up a corner of the living room with toys, books, craft supplies, etc. Rotate the items to keep their interest. Use baby gates, playpens or activity centres to contain young ones in safe spaces nearby. Give older kids screen time on tablets or educational games when needed. The more engaged kids are in their zone, the fewer interruptions you’ll get.
Take Advantage of Naptime
Naptime equals productivity time! When your little ones are sleeping, try to power through computer-based tasks like responding to emails, joining online meetings and planning projects. Save lighter work like phone calls or busy tasks like cleaning for when the kids are awake. Having a plan for naptime helps you maximise getting work done. Don’t forget to also use naptime to recharge yourself as well.
Stay Connected
Working remotely can feel isolating, especially as a parent. Make an effort to have regular virtual check-ins with colleagues, managers and clients. Join online mum groups to connect with others in your situation. And take occasional breaks from work to give your children attention and affection. Staying connected enhances your wellbeing and helps you feel part of a community, even when working alone.
Working from home with kids is far from easy! But implementing these mum hacks can help you better manage balancing your remote job with parenting. The key is staying organised, asking for help when needed, creating engaging spaces for kids, planning your time wisely and connecting with others. With some creativity and flexibility, you can make working from home work for your family.
