[Life] 3 Tips for working from home with kids: Schedules, Cupcakes and A Box of Wine
/This is officially the three day anniversary of me wearing these pants. I should probably take a shower…
My kids are off school for spring break, which has re-adjusted our previous re-adjustment to home life. To cope, I’ve created some schedules for them and myself to keep things chugging alongside me working from home. As crazy as all this is right now, I’m trying to soak it up because I know I’ll miss being around them all day once they’re back at school and I’m back in the office at my day job.
Being home is part of my goal with becoming a full time author. So this is a trial run of sorts. I’m still waking up extra early to get in writing before their day and my work day starts a few times a week. Even with all the craziness going on, I’m not watching the news and I think that calms me down and keeps me focused on what’s in front of me and what I can control.
Here are my top 3 tips that have helped me cope with working from home:
Printed schedules - I went out and bought a printer when everything started. The kids have needed it for their school work, but also for other projects I’ve come up with. I created a daily schedule for them with check marks next to each item. When they finish a task, it’s a check. If they have 5 completed checklists they can choose a movie, tv show or game for us to buy and download.
Everyone gets out of pajamas in the morning! We all wake up, brush teeth and have breakfast. I’ll admit sometimes I’m putting on the same pants I wore the day before, hence my three day anniversary and they’re not exactly business pants (hello sweats!), but it helps us.
We’re coloring or drawing every day. On their checklist is a spot for them to color or draw with me. Even though we’re all in the house together, it doesn’t necessarily feel like we’re getting in as much quality time. So, if it’s on the checklist, it means they want to do it and I’m reminded that I do too (see above about missing this later). Solo time with the kids without my phone nearby where we can talk and I can listen is so important and has helped with their anxiety about the whole situation.
Those are my tips! Not to say I’m not also becoming a master bartender/wine bottle opener because oh hell yes, that’s happening! But we’re all doing the best we can. I hope you’re safe and healthy!
Maya xx