10 Tips on How to Survive Working from Home with a Toddler
It was Thursday, March 12, 2020. At the end of the workday, we were told to pack up our laptops and whatever else we needed to work from home for the next couple of weeks.
Hah! Well here we are, a year later.
I have wanted to work-from-home since I became a mom, but the sudden change didn’t leave me with any time to plan and prepare for this new work-from-home lifestyle. Not to mention, the whole pandemic making things stressful for everyone. Be careful what you wish for, I guess.
In total honesty, it’s still a bit of a struggle juggling my 9-to-5 job while doing my mama duties to make sure my son makes it through each day with as little scratches as possible.
Through this journey, I’ve cried, laughed, and wanted to pull my hair out. But, as I’ve become more accustomed to this new reality, I’ve also found a few things to make my work-from-home life just a little bit easier. I know my work life might be different than yours, but thought I’d share some things that have helped me.
Here are some tips that might help you get through a workday a little less stressed.
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1. Set up activities/toys
Having a toy bin or a designated area where your child can dig through some things to play with is helpful. I make sure my son is able to access enough toys to keep him occupied for a bit.
I am also very grateful that my son is able to play independently. He has plenty of cars and trains and learning devices to play with on his own.
Below are a few toys that my son loves, and that have helped me get some uninterrupted time to work. Some of these may still need more adult supervision than others, but they’ll, hopefully, at least keep your toddler from running around the house making messes.
Kinetic Sand – It can get a bit messy, but when he’s done playing, we pick up as much as we can and just vacuum up the rest. A good tip is to put a garbage bag on the floor under where your kid is playing.
Train Set – This was one of my son’s favorite Christmas presents (thanks to his awesome parents). He sometimes struggles with putting the train tracks together, so we’ll help him out if he really needs it. But, this is a great way for him to practice putting together puzzle pieces.
Play-Doh – This may need some more adult supervision. But, if you’re able to set your kids up so they can make the least mess possible and trust they won’t eat it, then it can be a fun activity to keep your kids entertained for a while!
Balance Wobble Board – This was an awesome purchase. My son LOVES cars and all other types of toys on wheels. He uses his wobble board as a little ramp for his vehicles. He makes them race and do tricks, and he really enjoys making them crash.
2. Schedule your lunch break
If you’re someone who has meetings after meetings, please don’t forget to eat! Block out the time on your calendar, step away from your computer, and enjoy your lunch. Oh, and don’t forget to feed your kids.
I’m usually able to just update my status to “away from my computer”, so my colleagues don’t expect me to reply right away. This is a great time to take a break, relax, and spend some time with your little monster who might want a little company. And, to make sure he’s not getting into any trouble.
When the weather is nice, I will take my son on walks after we eat or get some fresh air in the backyard. I also make sure to get in lots of hugs, which totally helps to relieve stress.
3. Take breaks and stretch
I am constantly taking breaks when I need to. If I’m able to, I’ll take 10-20 minutes to sit down and play with my son. Most times, I take quick five minute breaks whenever I get the chance. It’s just enough time to take a potty break, grab a snack, get a hug and kiss in from my little one, and make sure he’s not destroying the house.
If you need to, put your breaks on your schedule or set an alarm on your phone to remind yourself to get up and stretch. Sitting at the computer for eight hours straight isn’t great on your body. Remember to stretch, take a breather, drink some water, and hug your little one!
4. Schedule meetings during nap time
My little one has started skipping nap time more often (ugh). When I can, I try to align my meetings with my son’s nap time. Even if he doesn’t take a nap, he usually winds down around the same time in the afternoon.
I am also lucky to have a team who is aware and understanding of my parental duties. They understand if I need to step away for a second to help my son or if he decides to join in for part of the meeting. Thank goodness for the mute button!
5. Get work notifications on your phone
Some days, my son needs more attention than other days. I set up my phone to receive work emails and direct messages just in case I’m away from my computer for longer than usual.
Sometimes I like to take a break and just sit with my son and de-stress. If I get a message that needs my attention ASAP, then I can quickly get back to my computer. If it’s something that can wait a few more minutes, then I’ll enjoy a bit more time with my son.
If you have a meeting, make sure to set a reminder 5-15 minutes before it starts so you don’t miss it! These reminders are helpful for when you’re in the middle of changing a diaper or cleaning up another mess.
Also, turning off those notifications once you’re “off work” so that you can focus on family is something I need to start doing.
6. Get a babysitter
I know with the pandemic, this may not be possible or something you would want to do. I am lucky and grateful to live with family members who help watch my son. But, if you’re not in the same position, you may want to look into hiring a babysitter, if that’s something you’re comfortable with.
7. Stay organized and write it down
When you have so much on your brain, you’ve just gotta write it down somewhere.
I love having a physical planner along with my Outlook calendar. This keeps me organized and helps me plan out my day/week. This also helps me see what the best times are to take breaks.
I am a huge fan of lists and Post-it notes. My desk is typically covered in colorful reminders of my tasks that I can toss/cross off once I’ve completed each task. Is mom brain a forever thing? Because I definitely still have it after almost three years.
8. Go outside
Boy, does my child have energy! Some days I just really cannot keep up with him.
When the weather permits, I like to take my son on a walk after lunch. During the summer and spring times, we had many lunchtime picnics in our backyard. Can’t wait to get back to that!
Take some time to go outside and have your child run off that energy (and maybe it’ll even help get a nap in). Being pent up inside the house all day is no fun for anyone!
9. Screen time
Yep.. I said it.
Let’s just say, during the lockdown, I have eased up on the strict screen time rules (not that they were THAT strict before). Some days, I try my best to use as little screen time as possible. Most days, I just give in. If I have a meeting that lasts an hour or more, I just throw on Pokemon or Magic School Bus to ensure there won’t be any interruptions and I know he will be sitting in one place the whole time (usually).
I don’t like giving my son the iPad anymore (except for on long drives) because he would always sit with it practically pressed up against his face…But, there are some fun, educational apps that our son has enjoyed.
Of course, I would like to find other ways to occupy his time, but sometimes an episode of his favorite show is what works best for both of us.
10. Don’t be hard on yourself
We are all trying our best. If you can get into a rhythm, great! If not, try not to stress about it. We’re in a pandemic.. No one was prepared for this. Heck, just being the parent of a toddler is stressful on its own. Find what works best for you. Most importantly, take care of yourself so you can be there for your little one.
This is one of my favorite mantras that I have constantly repeated to myself throughout this pandemic whenever I start to feel stressed or overwhelmed:
Today, I will not stress over things I can't control.
It’s hard not to stress. We just have to find those ways that will help bring us back to the right mindset and let go of what is out of our control.
One thing that has really helped me start the day off in the right mindset is having a morning routine.
Hope this helps some of you working parents that are also struggling through the pandemic with a toddler. You’re not alone!
I’d love to hear what has helped you as a work-from-home parent. Please share in the comments! I could use all the help I can get!
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