Freelancing from home is a great way to earn an income when you have kids. You can be flexible with your hours, you don’t have to commute, you can wear what you want and you get to see more of your kids. The problem is, working from home is hard due to all the distractions, but it is nearly impossible with an active toddler in the house. Here are some tips to keep toddlers busy when naptimes aren’t as long as they used to be.
Ask For Help
If you are looking for inexpensive childcare, check out your local church groups, or find a trustworthy high school or college student. It will give you time to focus while you child is in good hands. If you can’t afford a paid caregiver ask a friend or family member to help you out, Even if it’s only for a few hours each week. This can make all the difference and will give you time to make those important calls while the house is quiet.
Child Swap
Are you friends with another mom or dad who works from home? If you do you can talk to him or her about making a child swap. This way you can take it in turns watching each other’s children while the other gets some work done. This has the advantages of giving you time to work while your child gets to make a new playmate.
Keep Them Active
Plan in advance and make sure you have plenty of activities to keep your toddler occupied while you’re doing your work. Always keep a good stock of craft supplies, books, dress-up clothes, and educational DVDs as well as toys. You can also use technology to keep them busy. Try this app with a cool coloring book.
Have Some Playtime
It’s impossible to finish a project when your child is constantly demanding your attention. If this is the case, take a break from what you’re working on and give your child the undivided attention she needs for at least 30 minutes. You’ll soon find that have a period of focused time together, she will be happy to amuse herself again while you get back to work.
Provide Some Independent Play Activities
Young kids are never happier than when they are using their imaginations. You can help with this by providing them with a safe area for independent play, such as a playhouse, fort or castle. Provide plenty of props and dress-up outfits for them to wear when they are pretending to be different characters. You could even create a play space based on one of their favorite storybooks.
Toddlers are naturally curious and busy little people, but they can often be busy keeping you busy, so make sure your toddler has plenty of activities to occupy herself with so that you can get busy with your work.