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Survive the Work-from-Home Struggle as a Parent of Small Children With These Methods
Working from home can be quite a challenge, especially when you’re a parent of young children. Whether you’re trying to stay productive while your little one is running around or you’re trying to juggle parenting duties with work, it can be overwhelming. There are some simple things you can do to make your day easier, though. Here are a few of the best, courtesy of Professional Mom.
Give Yourself a Great Workspace
Creating a distraction-free workspace is essential when working from home with kids. This means having all necessary supplies within reach, setting boundaries between your workspace and living space, and making sure that the area is free from distractions such as toys or clutter. If your schedule requires you to be in the same room with your children while you work, set up an area for them to safely play in that includes plenty of activities. These might include age-appropriate video games, board games, coloring books, puzzles, or educational stations.
Upgrade Your Education
If you’d like to improve your career (or maybe even start your own business), going back to school and studying from home could be a real game-changer. For instance, if you’re interested in giving yourself an edge over the competition with a degree in business, studying online gives you huge time savings and all the flexibility you need to make it work.
Keep Things Neat
When working from home, it’s crucial to stay organized and keep things as neat as possible. This is often easier said than done when you have small children, but providing storage solutions can go a long way toward helping you reduce clutter, which can be detrimental to your mental health.
Taking a few minutes at the end of each workday to clean up and return items to their places can make a big difference, and you can have your toddler help out by making the task a game. Look online for cleanup songs you can teach your little one that will help them learn how to pick up after themselves.
Practice Self-Care
Working from home while also taking care of children can be incredibly stressful, so it’s important to take time for yourself during the day. Consider activities such as yoga, reading, listening to music, or taking walks outdoors to help manage stress levels and provide some “me time” throughout the day. Taking care of yourself will help ensure that you can take care of others effectively during this challenging time.
Invest In Comfortable Clothing
Having comfortable yet stylish clothes is essential when working from home with a new baby, as it allows for easy access when nursing while still looking presentable if need be (e.g., video calls). Investing in superior nursing bras will make life easier and more comfortable. Not only do these garments offer the needed support to eliminate strain on your back and shoulders due to carrying your baby, but they also provide a higher level of comfort.
Build a Support System
Having support from friends and family members as you learn to balance parenthood with remote work can be incredibly helpful. Reach out to those who understand what you’re going through and ask for advice if needed. Having someone who understands how difficult it can be to juggle both parenting duties and work responsibilities can make all the difference.
Work Out a Schedule That Fits Your Needs
If possible, try scheduling some of your most important tasks during nap time so that you have some peace while also being able to keep an eye on your little one if needed. It’s not always easy, but taking advantage of naps whenever possible will give you more time throughout the day for both work tasks and parenting responsibilities without feeling overwhelmed by either one. Establishing a routine will also help your little ones stick to your schedule.
Working from home with little ones can be stressful, of course, but it can also be extremely rewarding to be able to spend more time with them. By working out a schedule that fits both your needs, you can ensure that you’re able to find work/life balance and keep stress at bay. Look for comfy clothing that will help you feel good throughout the day, as this can boost your mood.
Professional Mom is proud to share stories and tips from plenty of hard-working super-moms out there. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out!
*Leslie Campos is a welcomed contributor to Professional Mom. Her own site, wellparents.com offers good advice for parents also. She is a mom of 3 from Iowa and loves to provide insight and tips for other moms. Give us some feedback and add your tips as well in the comments.