Summer’s Here, Now What? -
How to Work When the Kids
Are Home Too 

© Cheryl C. Malandrinos
- All Rights Reserved. 

This year I’ve especially looked forward to summer.  With everything the girls are involved in, it will be nice for all the activities to come to an end so we can slow down the pace a bit.  Of course, I also won’t have a few hours a day to myself anymore.  

Working from home while the kids are there too, doesn’t have to mean burning the midnight oil just to keep up with your to-do list.  Here are a few ways you can remain productive, keep the kids occupied and still leave room for family time. 

Adjust Your Schedule 

One of the things I’ve spoken about is finding a work schedule that is best for you.  With the kids home, however, that schedule might not be practical; especially if you’re used to working during the day. 

Consider getting up a bit earlier or working after the kids are in bed.  While this might not be easy all year long, it is a temporary solution that can help you accomplish your weekly goals.  Make sure you continue to take advantage of time spent in doctor’s waiting rooms to get additional work done. 

Take More Frequent Breaks 

While it might seem counter-productive to take more breaks during the day, you’ll get more done if you don’t have to listen to, “I’m bored!” every five minutes.   

Set a timer.  When it goes off, put your work down and spend time with the kids.  Read, have a picnic lunch in the backyard, or play a game together.   

Easy Arts and Crafts 

Nowadays there are so many arts and crafts kits available that there is bound to be something your children will like.  

A good way to transition from family time back to work time is to have arts and crafts set out for the kids.  When you’re done playing, let them choose what they want to create.  Read the instructions together and then let them know you need to work until the timer rings again.   

Make sure to have other simple activities such as molding clay, paints or coloring books and crayons available in case they get bored with what they are working on. 

Remind them that you can’t be interrupted until the timer goes off.  As long as you consistently get up and spend time with them when promised, the kids will learn to respect your work schedule. 

Mommy’s Little Helpers 

Young children love to help Mommy out.  Take advantage of this by allowing them to dust or sweep the floor.  Will it be perfect?  No.  But it will be good enough.   

Older children can do the laundry, wash dishes, empty the trash or clean the living areas so that you can spend more time together later.   

Play Dates 

Until this year when I found myself busier than normal, I wasn’t a huge fan of play dates.  Spending time dropping off the kids and then driving home, not to mention wasting time talking with another parent during drop-off and pick-up, seemed counter-productive.   

Even one hour of uninterrupted time can make a difference in how much you accomplish.   

Schedule regular play dates throughout the summer.  This will keep kids in touch with their friends, and parents who take turns hosting play dates at their houses get some much needed relief. 

Day camps can also be a chance for your children to interact with their peers while allowing you the freedom to work without guilt. 

Summer is a fun time for families.  It can also be a productive season for you.  With a few simple changes, you can work at home even when the kids are there too. 

About the Author: CherylC. Malandrinos is a freelancer who specializes in helping writers increase productivity through time management and organization. She has also written articles on everyday life in the 1800’s, gardening, parenting, and women’s health issues. A member of Musing Our Children, Cheryl is the new editor of Pages & Pens, Musing Our Children’s quarterly newsletter.  Her first children’s book will be released in 2010.  You can find out more about Cheryl by visiting her website at:
http://ccmalandrinos.tripod.com/