Balancing Summer and Kids With Working From Home

Working from home sounds like a great idea, especially if you want to spend more time with your children. However, reality hits during their summer break when your children are home during your normal work hours. Learn how to handle the extra distractions that happen during the summer when you're working from home.

Plan Ahead

Schedule and plan activities well in advance. This usually means enrolling your kids in summer camps so they have something to do during the day. Make sure these camps pique your children's interests. If attending camp is not an option, consider creating activities that keep them busy and your workspace quiet for several hours during the day.

Planning ahead also means trying to get major projects done before school lets out for the summer. Prioritize your most important projects, and work on them as efficiently as you can before mid-May arrives. That way, you're more likely to meet major deadlines.

If you're working from home with children present, everyone must have a schedule. Create a summertime schedule for your children, making sure to designate regular bedtimes, mealtimes and play times.

Find Childcare

Younger kids may require childcare. Yes, that adds costs to your monthly expenses. However, you should gauge how much money you stand to lose if your kids spend the entire summer at home. Consider creative solutions for your childcare dilemma, such as asking neighbors, family members or friends to watch your children for a lower cost. Try bartering or trading with neighbors or relatives. For example, you can watch their children during the weekend in exchange for their help during your work hours.

Involve the Kids

Involve your kids in your business when working from home. Have your children file documents, pack merchandise or help replenish printer paper. Not only does this help your kids stay engaged with your work, but it also shows them the importance of what you do. Reward your children with their favorite meal or dessert when they pitch in to help out at your home office.

Get Creative

You may need to get creative when you have an important client meeting to handle over the phone. Don't be afraid to bring out your heavy hitters during those meetings, such as a special toy box filled with your children's favorite things. You can also play a movie or set up a game everyone can play for an hour.

Let Your Clients Know

Let your clients know that working from home comes with the benefits of spending more time with your family. Chances are good that your clients completely understand since they might have families themselves. Your children might actually help you to bond with a customer who also works from home and understands what it's like.

Working from home has its challenges and rewards. During summer breaks, prepare yourself and go with the flow. No situation is perfect, but planning ahead helps make certain challenges more manageable.

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