How to Work From Home with Young Children

Many mothers and fathers find that the financial demands of a family requires two incomes. However, when the cost of child care combined with transportation and other necessities of work end up voiding the financial benefits, some parents decide that the best way to make ends meet is to care for their own children while working from home. Taking this step has both benefits and drawbacks. How are they best handled so that all responsibilities are met and you and your children are happy? --------- Have a Schedule Creating a schedule for your workday is important in balancing the limited time available for work and children. Your children may not have all your attention all the time, but setting aside regular intervals of dedicated time for them will make your day, and their's, more pleasant. When planning your time, use it wisely. For instance, making meals could be done quicker if you do it yourself, but it will become an activity and entertainment to your pre-schooler if they are involved. Using evening, early morning and nap time for work is also wise. Your children will accept their 'free time' without you more readily if they know that they do not have to pry you from your work to get attention. Using intervals of time for them will assure your children of your interest and love while enabling you to complete work as undistracted as possible. --------- Get Out Of the House If possible, take time every day to get out of the house. A walk around the block, a trip to the mall, or a visit with friends. It is beneficial for you to step away from the demands of work and it is good for your children to have your undivided attention. --------- See People It is far too easy to get caught up in balancing work and children while neglecting your own needs. See people. At the park or with a neighbor, you need adult interaction to clear your head and refresh you. --------- Share the Load Whether that means hiring outside help for some of the child care or housework, or just having a supportive mate who recognizes that working from home is as time consuming as working away, do not plan to work, care for children and do all the housework without assistance. It is not easy to work from home with young children. The pros and cons should be carefully considered. However, if you feel it suits your family then your children WILL thank you. You will enjoy many aspects of your children that other parents miss and your children will benefit from knowing they always have a parent home for them. For more info about working from home with children visit HomeAndFamilyInfo.com