So you took the step and are working from home now, do those kids ever drive you crazy? I totally understand what it can be like to be trying to type up an email or blog with that persistent toddler climbing into your lap just to slap your keyboard over and over. I’ve done some market research with my local toddler + older kiddos and put together a few ideas of ways to keep your little ones busy for a few moments for you to get some work done, without crazy interruptions. These are ones that have worked best for me and my kiddos, and I would love for you to share your favorite activity in the comments that allow you to get 5-30 minutes of productive work done.
Cardboard Box – There were so many occasions when my older 2 kiddos were more interested in the box than the toy, so with my toddler I started to give her boxes instead of toys during play time. It is fun to watch their imagination run wild as that box could become anything. You’ll get bonus points and time if you incorporate markers and let them color it.
Bathtub Play – Depending on your kiddos age, depends on the level of supervision needed. But if you have younger kiddos, take your mobile working station (laptop, tablet, phone, etc.) to the bathroom and keep an eye/ear out while you do some simple tasks that don’t require full attention. Take necessary precautions with water depth and temperature, otherwise.. get to work while they play and get a quick bath. Sounds like a win win to me!
Coloring/Painting – Again, with age the kind of colors or paint you’ll prefer your kids to use will change. If they are in the toddler age, let me recommend the Crayola Color Wonder, magical markers and books that only work together. Meaning when your precious baby takes the black marker to your freshly painted white wall, absolutely nothing will happen. (ok.. Maybe I’m speaking from experience where I wish I gave her these instead) If your kids are bigger then break out some markers and paint and let them make the next masterpiece for the fridge.
Sensory Bin/Bag – Obviously geared towards the younger kiddos, but the older ones always show interest too! Get a large bowl, box, or ziploc bag and fill it with lots of small objects. Some ideas are: rice, beans, large glitter, shaving cream, etc. If you are wanting to avoid messes, let me suggest using a ziploc bag and securing with tape, or even taping to the window and let the light shine through!
Stay, Play, Walk Away – This one can be a hit or miss if you have younger toddlers who demand more attention. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t at least try it whenever you play with them! Go and play with your little one for a few minutes and let them be in control. Once they’re in the zone, step out and get some things done. For me, I go across the hallway and work in my room instead as it’s closer than my normal working place in the living room. Worst case, it doesn’t work and you either take your work to their room or go back to playing with your babies.
Give Them a Popsicle – This can be as healthy or unhealthy as you want, depending on what kind you purchase. Take a paper towel and fold it hot dog style 2x and then wrap around the bottom of the popsicle stick to help manage any messes. I am guaranteed more working time if I give my girls a popsicle, yes my toddler too, over the ipad. Mainly because they can’t fight if they all have one and if their mouths are busy eating, sounds crazy but it works every time!
Park Time – Best way to do this is go to your favorite least busy/most safe park and take your work! Even if your kids are younger, allow them to run around in the grass or sand and play with some toys. A new scene and being outside will make it a different experience than just playing at home like normal. Plus, you’ll enjoy the fresh air and sunshine too.
Quiet/Nap Time – Books, movies, and naps, are some great ways for your kiddos to have some quiet calm down time after a long day (physically or emotionally) If your baby or toddler needs some extra steps for a nap, take them while accepting that is part of their quiet/nap time. Once they are asleep or independently happy, you are able to step away and get busy with your work.