With schools closed around the province and companies keeping their employees telecommuting pretty much indefinitely due to COVID-19—working parents and children are figuring out their new normal. And for many, it’s a healthy mix of chaos, family time, stress, fighting and bargaining with their partner on who will take which shift so the other can take a conference call or finish a paper.
It is important to remember that children are likely to need a period of time to adjust and they may not just fall into placed perfectly. They will be hearing and seeing the changes and are likely to be feeling just as anxious as us. Go easy on yourself!
Create A Schedule
As most of us probably already know, kids thrive on routine! This is especially true for those school-aged children who have grown accustomed to being in classes. A schedule will not only help them stay focused, but hopefully provide periods of productivity for you, too.
This schedule can include time for yourself to breathe, time for them to talk about their emotions, to create or play games, to watch tv or to do homework, and to go to bed.
Rules and timeframes for their days can make their adjustment to this strange time a bit easier. Additionally, it makes it easier for you to structure your work day. For younger children, adding in naps is a great way to get some work in!
Get Up Really Early
The best way to work when your toddler is around is by getting as much done as possible when they aren’t. This means setting an alarm an hour or two before they are typically up for the day. If you do your best thinking in the morning, tackle your largest projects and distractions during this time. But if you’re not a morning person, have a cup of coffee and use this time to organize yourself, respond to quick email requests, clean-up and plan out the rest of your workday.
Encourage Independent Play
Independent play is important for toddler development. For working parents, independent play can give mom or dad some much needed time to get work done. Getting together some activities to keep them busy is a great way to encourage independent play without it being stressful!
Make Them An Important Part Of Your Day
Let your kids be kids! Let your kids do the harmless activities that you don’t necessarily love. Play-dough, laying on the dog bed, making a bed on the ground! This gives you 30 minutes to do something that was needed.
Take your attention off the screen if your child wants it. Embrace and the little memories in life with them!
IN THE IVY 