If
you are the work at home parent
of a toddler, you're sure to
know the headaches and hassles that come with the territory.
It is possible, however, to work from home with a small
child without losing your sanity or your income. If you're
in need of a few tips and tricks to get you through your
work from home day with your one and a half to three year
old, try these on for size!
1. Just Like Mommy or Daddy
Purchase a toddler sized desk, and stock it with plenty of
scrap paper, stickers, and crayons. You may even want to
purchase a used keyboard and cut off the cord, or provide
your toddler with a toy computer. Allow them to sit at their
desk while you sit at yours, and play "work". This tip may
just provide you with the fifteen minutes you need to answer
email or make that client call in peace. Get creative
when working at home with a toddler!
2. Download a Lock Out Program
If you frequently use your computer, you may find that your
toddler is fascinated with it as well. All those blinking
lights, buttons, and fun sounds make it incredibly
attractive. It's cute, until you realize that your wee one
has just pushed the power button and obliterated several
hours worth of work. A lock out program can help.
Toddler Keys is free, and locks your child out of the buttons
as well as the keyboard - great for when you have to step
away from the computer.
3. Learn to Work in Spurts
Sometimes fifteen minutes of peace is all you can muster.
When planning your day, put a star beside those activities
on your to do list that can be accomplished quickly or while
being interrupted. Answering email, for example, can be done
in small chunks, while a major conference call cannot. Use
this list and your toddler's mood to plan when you'll
accomplish which activities. Taking the time to prioritize
in this manner will allow you to spend time with your
toddler, while getting your work done, even on those
melt-down-pull-your-hair-out days.
Working from home is challenging, and working from home with
a toddler can sometimes seem impossible. On days when you're
struggling, take a deep breath. Try implementing one or all
of these tips, and if all else fails, call it a day and go
to the park. After all, your children are only small once,
and you're working at home to enjoy this time.
