Tips and Tricks for Working from Home with Children

Having worked from home exclusively for almost five years, I can confidently say that while remote work offers numerous benefits, it also comes with its own unique set of challenges. Distractions that don't exist in a traditional office, difficulty connecting with co-workers, blurred work-life boundaries, and staying motivated can all be tough to navigate. However, the most significant challenge I've faced is balancing work with caring for my two young children. 

There are many reasons an employee might find themselves juggling both work and parenting—sick days, snow days, unexpected daycare closures, or simply struggling to find reliable childcare. Through trial and error, I’ve learned that having a plan in place is essential. There are several practical tips and strategies that can set both you and your family up for success when working from home with children around. 

1. Set Realistic Expectations and Boundaries 

The first step in making remote work with kids successful is setting clear, realistic expectations—both for yourself and your children. The age of your child(ren) will significantly impact what those expectations should look like. Having an age-appropriate conversation about the day ahead can help both you and your child understand what to expect. 

For example, you could say something like: “Mommy/Daddy is going to work while you’re home today. I won’t be able to play as much as I usually do and after breakfast, I’ll have a meeting. You can play with your blocks in the living room while I’m in the kitchen.” 

If your child is young enough to take naps, try to maximize productivity during this time. Nap time can be a golden opportunity to get through tasks without interruptions. 

2. Stay Organized but Flexible 

Organization is key, but flexibility is just as important. Try experimenting with different organizational methods to find what works best for you. Create a system to track your tasks for the day so you know exactly what needs to be accomplished. This helps you dive straight into work whenever you find a free moment. 

Consider breaking your work into short bursts with frequent breaks for family needs. Prioritize high-impact tasks and focus on getting those done first. Your workday will look different when you're juggling parenting, but with some planning and flexibility, it’s entirely possible to produce high-quality work while also being a high-quality parent. 

3. Prepare Activities Ahead of Time 

Keeping a box of ready-to-go activities in a closet can be a lifesaver. For younger children, this could include simple items like a special coloring book, Play-Doh, or stickers. For older kids, consider puzzles, arts and crafts, or a new book. 

One of my go-to strategies is holding back a few gifts after birthdays or Christmas. I store them away and bring them out when I need a quick distraction—especially if a time-sensitive meeting or assignment is looming. 

If your child is old enough to read, you can create a list of activity ideas and direct them to it if they start complaining about boredom. If your child has screen time as part of their routine, consider using that time during the workday to get some focused work done. 

4. Communicate with Your Team 

No matter how well you plan, communication with your team is crucial. It’s important to let your colleagues know about your situation and the challenges you're balancing at home. Many people understand the difficulties of balancing work and home life, and they’re often sympathetic to the hurdles you face. 

By keeping your team informed and having their support, you'll find that you're better able to manage both your professional and personal responsibilities. 

With these practical strategies, it’s possible to thrive as both a working professional and a parent, even while balancing the demands of remote work with children at home. It takes time and patience, but with a little preparation and communication, you can create a setup that works for everyone.