Parents guide Working From Home

Parenting can feel like a series of impossible choices. You want to spend as much time as possible with your little ones, watch as they learn and grow, and see the people they’re becoming. However, you also want to provide for them as much as possible. Many families can’t afford for either parent to be out of work. So how do you manage?
 
One option is to work from home. There are compromises, yes, but it has the potential to be the best of both worlds. Here are some resources to help you work from home productively as a parent.
 
Know Your Limits
 
Setting boundaries is vital for success:
 
●      If you’re a new or soon-to-be parent, try not to schedule work for the first eight weeks of your child’s life - you’ll need time to adjust.
●      Figure out what tools help you focus and have them guide house rules. For example, you could make a rule that you’re not to be disturbed when your office door is closed.
●      If your kids are old enough, you could establish daily quiet time where they read, color, or just play quietly.
 
Find Flexible Work
 
The 9-5 grind isn’t always a good fit for work-from-home parents:
 
●      When searching for jobs, focus on remote job listings that advertise a flexible schedule.
●      Consider freelance and contract work, so you can establish your own schedule.
●      If you’re crafty, you can start your own business selling items on sites like Etsy.
 
Lighten Your Load
 
Take some tasks off your plate and make life easier:
 
●      Consider hiring a regular maid service to knock out big cleaning tasks so your home is easy to maintain.
●      Grocery delivery services and meal kits can save you a trip to the supermarket.
●      Teach your child responsibility (and make your life easier) with age-appropriate chores.
 
Working from home while you take care of your little ones can be a challenge, but it comes with a big reward. You’ll get to be there for all the precious moments and keep your career moving forward. Keep these resources on hand as you explore this path and find the balance that's right for your family.
 
Photo Credit: Unsplash

Written By: 
Lacie Martin
Raisethemwell.org
lacie@raisethemwell.org