5 Ways to Manage Parenting While Working From Home

I still remember. It was a week before Spring Break. Classes canceled. Kids running out of school going bananas, thrilled about an extra week off of school. Parents stunned, yet still able to offer an uncertain chuckle. We had no idea what we were facing. Almost a year later – wow, it’s really been that long – we have made adjustments and fine-tuned our daily routine to make room for parenting while working from home. Still, there are days that feel like I’m 2 minutes into round 12 doing everything I can to stay on my feet. For those days, I offer 5 ways to manage parenting while working from home. Perhaps these serve as reminders, or something new to add to your arsenal of weapons.

1. Laugh often. Create a home/workplace/school that you and your family enjoy. You can set the tone. I often get so focused on a task that I don’t realize the scowl look flooding my face. I love Proverbs 14:1, “The wise woman builds her house, but with her own hands the foolish one tears hers down.” Choose to build a house of joy and laugher.
2. Go outside, even if it’s just for 10 minutes. Keep your child’s bike, scooter, skates, or stroller easily accessible so you can quickly dash out during a break. Stay out long, or go for a short stroll. Getting some fresh air can pay dividends throughout the day and help you with number one on this list.
3. Share a treat. Whether it’s a chai tea latte for you, or a cookie for your kids, an occasional treat can brighten the day. It can also offer enough of a distraction to get you through that zoom meeting without interruption. I always buy a few things from the grocery store that I know will help us out on a long day.
4. Clock out. Even if you have to get back to work later in the day, have a designated time away from your work. Be present. Listen to your kids’ stories. Prepare family meals. Read a book. See number one.
5. Let go of mom guilt. Maybe your kids are watching more TV than you would like, or staying up later than they were pre-pandemic, or you’re ordering take out AGAIN. Even so, remember that just because you can’t do it all doesn’t mean you’re not doing a great job. Our hearts need to be strengthened by grace. (Hebrews 13:9) Get comfortable hitting the reset button and starting over when needed.