Working from home has become the norm for many people, but it can be challenging when you have kids at home. Children require attention and stimulation, which can make it difficult to concentrate on work. However, there are ways to keep your kids entertained while you work from home. In this article, we’ll share some tips and tricks to help you balance your work and your family life.
But first, a few words about our experience with RIE parenting in this matter.
RIE Parenting and work from home
I’ve been working from home since our daughter was 1.7 years old, and now she’s 7. In the beginning, it was hard, but with a lot of patience, a daily routine, and a dedicated workspace, I managed to keep my child entertained while working from home. Building blocks, Lego, coloring books, and all kids of puzzles were of great help.
On the other side, by adopting RIE parenting and following its base principles, our daughter started to play independently from an early age.
One aspect of RIE parenting that helps develop independent children is the idea of giving children space to explore and discover things on their own. In RIE parenting, parents are encouraged to provide a safe and stimulating environment for their children, but not to intervene too much in their play or exploration. This allows children to learn how to entertain themselves and solve problems independently, which can lead to greater self-confidence and independence later in life.
Tips on how to keep your kids entertained while you work from home
Create a schedule
Creating a schedule can help you structure your day and make sure your kids know what to expect. Include work hours and breaks, as well as time for meals, exercise, and leisure activities. Having a routine will give your kids a sense of stability and make it easier for them to understand when they need to be quiet and when they can play.
Set up a dedicated work from home space
Having a dedicated workspace can help you establish boundaries between work and home life. You can also set up a play area for your kids nearby, so they can be close to you while you work. Make sure the play area is safe and has plenty of toys and activities to keep your kids entertained.
Plan activities
Planning activities ahead of time can help you keep your kids engaged and prevent boredom. You can schedule arts and crafts, reading time, puzzles, or educational games. If you have older kids, you can assign them tasks or projects to work on while you’re working.
Take breaks together
Taking breaks together can help you connect with your kids and give them the attention they need. You can take a walk, play a game, or have a snack together. It’s important to take breaks throughout the day, as it can help you stay productive and prevent burnout.
Use technology wisely
Technology can be a lifesaver when it comes to keeping your kids entertained. You can use educational apps, online games, or video chats with friends and family. However, it’s important to use technology wisely and limit screen time. Make sure you choose age-appropriate content and set time limits for screen time.
Be flexible
Finally, it’s important to be flexible and adjust your plans as needed. Some days your kids may need more attention than others, and that’s okay. Be patient and understanding, and remember that you’re doing your best to balance your work and your family life.
In conclusion, working from home with kids can be challenging, but it’s possible to make it work. By creating a schedule, setting up a dedicated workspace, planning activities, taking breaks together, using technology wisely, and being flexible, you can keep your kids entertained while you work. Remember to take care of yourself too, and don’t hesitate to ask for help when you need it.
