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How to Work from Home with Young
Children
Many mothers and fathers find that the financial demands of a family
requires two incomes. However, when the cost of child care combined with
transportation and other necessities of work end up voiding the
financial benefits, some parents decide that the best way to make ends
meet is to
care for their own children while working from home.
Taking this step has both benefits and drawbacks. How are they best
handled so that all responsibilities are met and you and your children
are happy?
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Have a Schedule
Creating a schedule for your workday is important in balancing the
limited time available for work and children. Your children may not have
all your attention all the time, but setting aside regular intervals of
dedicated time for them will make your day, and their's, more pleasant.
When planning your time, use it wisely. For instance, making meals could
be done quicker if you do it yourself, but it will become an activity
and entertainment to your pre-schooler if they are involved. Using
evening, early morning and nap time for work is also wise.
Your children will accept their 'free time' without you more readily if
they know that they do not have to pry you from your work to get
attention. Using intervals of time for them will assure your children of
your interest and love while enabling you to complete work as
undistracted as possible.
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Get Out Of the House
If possible, take time every day to get out of the house. A walk around
the block, a trip to the mall, or a visit with friends.
It is beneficial for you to step away from the demands of
working at home
and it is good for your children to have your undivided attention.
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See People
It is far too easy to get caught up in
balancing work and children
while neglecting your own needs. See people. At the park or with a
neighbor, you need adult interaction to clear your head and refresh you.
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Share the Load
Whether that means hiring outside help for some of the child care or
housework, or just having a supportive mate who recognizes that
working from home is as time consuming as working away,
do not plan to work, care for children and do all the housework without
assistance.
It is
not easy to work from home with young children.
The pros and cons should be carefully considered. However, if you feel
it suits your family then your children WILL thank you. You will enjoy
many aspects of your children that other parents miss and your children
will benefit from knowing they always have a parent
at home for them.
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