6 Tips for Moms Working from Home With Kids at Home

The 2021-2022 school year is back in session, and with it comes the return to school for many children and the sigh of relief for many working parents. But what about those parents whose children aren’t returning to a classroom this Fall? Whether this is due to age or other circumstances? The topic is one we’ve heard about on repeat since the beginning of 2020. It certainly isn’t new to any working parent, but it doesn’t mean balancing work and home life while at home for both has become routine.

So, how exactly can parents efficiently and effectively work from home when they are also playing the role of mom or dad?

Stick With a Consistent Morning Routine

How you start the day is a big predictor of how the day will go for you. A morning routine can be work-related, life-related, or both. For example, a big part of the morning routine in our household is getting a workout in. With a toddler and infant, self-care time isn’t easy to come by during waking hours, so early morning is when my husband and I take advantage and start the day the best way for us. For you, it might be reading, journaling, or organizing your work schedule for the upcoming day. Whatever puts you in the best mindset at the start of the day, do it, and do it consistently.

Prepare to Adjust

Not every day is going to go swimmingly, or even sanely. Never pigeonhole yourself in a strict schedule because things can change in an instant. Kids get sick, or life doesn’t always go according to plan. Allow yourself some wiggle room, so you don’t turn into a stress ball when adjustments are necessary. Also, don’t beat yourself up if the iPad comes out for your toddler so that you can finish up specific work tasks for the day. Be kind to yourself. On some days, extending screen time isn’t necessarily something you should beat yourself up over.

Plan Activities

Full disclosure, this can become a full-time job, so don’t overdo it. This tip simply means having some things planned for your child or children if the usual doesn’t suffice. It’s amazing how a little goes a long way. Don’t underestimate how much a small activity or toy can keep your little one occupied. A personal favorite in our house is anything with stickers and Melissa and Doug Water Wow books. If your kid is still at an age where they take naps, do your best to get them working off energy in the morning. This will lead to a restful naptime for them and a good stretch of quiet to get work accomplished for you.

Make a Daily To-Do List

If you’re anything like me, jotting things down, whether hard copy or digital, helps to keep thoughts and tasks in order. Also, is there anything more satisfying than checking things off a list? Your to-do list might seem overwhelming, especially if things pile up. If helpful, keep your personal and work lists separate. Additionally, star 3-5 things on each list that must get done that day. Prioritize to keep yourself organized and sane.

Bonus Tip: If you get into the habit of making your to-do list the night before, you’ll sleep more soundly by unloading the tasks out of your mind…at least for the night.

Schedule Walking Meetings

If you have a little one that tolerates being strolled around, consider scheduling meetings around the time you’ll be walking with them. It helps keep your child or children preoccupied while you flex your work muscle, whether these take place in-person instead of getting coffee or virtually.

Ask for Help

This is easily the most powerful tip and probably the hardest to follow through on. Unfortunately, there’s a stigma we have as moms that somehow asking for help means failure. This is furthest from the truth. Asking for help makes a situation not only better for you but your kids and your work. Working from home, watching your little ones, and managing your household are not tasks that anyone should be able to do simultaneously. So, swallow your pride and take the help when you can get it. It’s actually a sign of strength and intelligence.

Work from home parents, UNITE! Share your tips, thoughts, or experiences by commenting below.