Create a routine: Not only is important for you to have a schedule, but it’s also even more important for your children to have a daily routine. One of the biggest keys to finding balance is creating blocks of time for work, school, self-care, and family time. With school being temporarily closed you’ll want to build a “school” environment for them. You should organize your work around your family’s needs and child care opportunities. Your children are going to look to you in this time for guidance and taking the role of a “teacher”. Children thrive on routine and are happiest when they know what to expect.
Expect the unexpected: Expect interruptions and unanticipated shifts in priorities. Unexpected interruptions will occur especially with the children being homeschooled, so it is important to be alert. Take breaks to check on the kids, prioritize things that way when something unexpected does occur you’re prepared for whatever gets thrown at you. Some days will be harder than others be efficient, don’t panic, and adapt.
Limit your distractions: it is important to identify what is distracting you from work, so you know how to avoid or limit those distractions. When you have a solid plan that you can follow through, it makes it easier for you to focus and get less distracted. Also having a good workspace to yourself can limit interruptions, When you have a separate space, which ideally should not be your bedroom or the couch in the living room, then you are less prone to get distracted.
Let the children make some of their own decisions: Set up routines and systems so your child can independently handle situations like replacing the toilet paper, sharpening a pencil, or feeding the family pet. Encourage the older children to step and to help each other first before calling for your help. In this time you want to help your child build independence for example little things like having their food prepared the prior day and allowing them to get it on their own, daily chores, or an older sibling helping the younger with homework.
Communicate with your employer: You want to immediately notify your job, of the changes at home so they can also expect the unexpected. If you communicate with your manager, most times they will work with you to accommodate your situation. Your job will be more understanding about interruptions if you warn them ahead of time.
Categories
Tips on How to Balance Working From Home + Homeschooling
