I started working from home when my son was 14 months old. He was generally a very energetic child, but he did understand instructions when they were carried out at his level. Each week I had to spend 1-2 hours on a phone meeting with a client. I used to prepare my son ahead of time to let him know when the call was going to happen, what ideas he could do while I was on the phone, and what we would do together after the call was over. My son amazed me every time during those calls!! He really did seem to understand, always behaved very well, and we never once needed to use the TV.
Here are seven different ideas that you can try with your child. I use every one of these ideas myself, and they've proven successful time and time again.
1. Work during naptimes and after bedtime.
This one is the most obvious, but I had to list it because it really is the most efficient time to get work done. Once you put your child down for a nap or bedtime, grab a cup of coffee and run to your desk. What could take 2 hours with your child playing next to you asking you questions, may take only 30 minutes to complete while he or she is sleeping.
2. Keep a consistent schedule.
This idea is the hardest to implement, but I find to be the most crucial. If you always work at the same time, your child will start to get used to the schedule and realize your expectations of him or her during that time. There are have many studies on consistency in children's schedules. Children with consistency are more stable.
3. Define and explain your expectations to your child.
Set rules when you are working and stick with those rules. Does your child need to be quiet and sitting, or can they play noisily as long as it is by him or herself? Are they allowed to interrupt you? When, and in what way? How you explain your expectations to your child and how you enforce them are very important. Discuss them ahead of time and gently repeat as needed. If you are consistent with enforcing the rules, then your child will learn what is expected.
4. Encourage your child to spread out on the couch or floor next to you with a pile of books and their favorite blanket.
This can work well when you need to be on the phone or are having a client over for a meeting. Teaching your child to sit quietly with books is not only a great way for you to act professional, but it also reinforces reading and relaxation skills to your child. The favorite blanket helps to entice the child to sit longer without as much reinforcement from you.
5. Set up a workstation for your child similar to yours.
Children love to mimic their parents. It makes them feel important and grownup. Set the child up with things that are similar to your setup, such as a kid-sized desk or table with a chair, a computer of some sort, a non-working or play phone, some notebooks, pencils and crayons. If your child enjoys drawing, provide plenty of these materials for them to "work" next to you.
6. Hire a mother's helper to entertain your child.
Girls between the ages of 9 and 13 make excellent mother's helpers. Try to find a neighbor who loves playing with your child. She can entertain your child while you are busy or on the phone. If you need help during school hours, tap into your local home-school community. Often these children set different schedules than the regular school day and can be flexible.
7. Reward your child with quality mother/child time once your work is complete.
This one may be last, but is crucial. If you are expecting your child to give you time to work, then they need the incentive to know that once you are done, you will have time for them. You should fit this into your schedule every day. Your child will learn when you are available to give them undivided attention, and when they are expected to play on their own.
These ideas should help you to work while your kids are home. With a little up-front planning and explaining to your child, you will be well on your way to a successful home-based working environment. Remember consistency and understanding expectations are the most important elements.
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Kimberly Reddington, founder of CereusWomen.com, teaches moms how to turn their skills into a successful home-based service business where they can find a balance between doing something for themselves and for their children. Discover Kim's popular special report by visiting -->
www.CereusWomen.com
