When your 'Co-Worker' is Under Five
The ultimate guide for parents working from home with their little ones under their feet, under the table or even under the sink.
While for many, the prospect of working from home seems a great idea, the reality of having to juggle work commitments and a hectic family life simultaneously can be daunting. (As some of us in the office have found out!)
Children demand around-the-clock attention—and parenting while juggling calls, never-ending emails, and tight deadlines is no joke.
Remember when we all laughed at this from 2017?
Political science professor Robert Kelly, created one of 2017’s most viral moments after his two young children floated into his office just as he was being interviewed live on BBC News television. Well it's 2020 during the pandemic and we now know how you feel Robert.
Get a Schedule in Place
Just as if you were in the office, line up your day with set "office" hours. You will get more done if you work smarter, not harder. If you set yourself goals, even if they are small goals you can be flexible between your desk and the children.
The best benefits of working at home is flexibility. If your children are fussing during office hours and it's a lovely day outside, it is okay to push assignments aside and play outside for a bit. You have the option to catch up when they have gone to bed.
Speak to your Boss & Co-workers
They should understand, especially if they have children of their own that juggling the two can be hard. The best thing to do is have a discussion and show how you are setting goals to meet deadlines.
Talk to your Children - tell them what you are going to be doing each day.
If they can understand the importance of why you must do work for a little while then simply tell them. Make it into a game, explain to them that when the big hand and little hand point upwards to 12pm then you can eat and play together! (They won't forget, they WILL count down the time.)
Take Advantage of Naptime
If you have a child young enough that takes naps, take advantage! Whether they sleep for one hour or three, use this time to finish deadlines and completely focus. You can even schedule work calls during scheduled nap times.
Separate Yourself from being a Parent and Business Person
If you don't keep your roles separate as a parent and business person. Give each your full concentration for a set amount of time, you'll never feel like you're doing either well.
Have a Designated Workspace
Some of you may not have the option for a space, but those who do create a spot to spend the working day can help boost productivity and focus.
Clear a space somewhere, whether it be on a coffee table, the dinner table, the breakfast bar or even a spot on the sofa. If you have a spot to spend your working day it will still feel like a home that you can relax in.
Use Technology to your Advantage
We live in a world that is changing each day and becoming more and more digital. With children now at home during what was once the traditional working and school week, parents are expected to become part professional entertainers and teachers, as well as fulfilling their work commitments.
It is time to use technology to your advantage. Download apps and games that are both entertaining and educational, there are plenty of programmes on Netflix and YouTube that can be beneficial.
Most Importantly - Focus on the Positives
Working from home can be so difficult for some people, especially if they are not used to it. Going from a busy office to being isolated can be a massive change. Now more than ever, mastering a work life balance is key to maintain a healthy lifestyle and parent your children.
Everyone will have different routines, everyone will have their own opinions on working from home. Do what works for you and your children.
Don't blame yourself if you think that they watch TV too much. Keep in mind that these are extraordinary times and not everything has to be perfect from the day one, the most important thing to consider is mental health.
If you need a hand with anything or any more tips, feel free to get in touch.
Take care,
The Alexanders Team.