A combination of office and school closures is creating a new set of challenges for working parents with kids of all ages. There’s a lot to think about including how to keep kids engaged, get your own work done, and survive with the whole family at home. Here are some ways to make it all work.
ACCEPT YOUR NEW NORM
- Your work schedule is going to be different so get used to it. Don’t try to work the same hours with the same level of productivity. Set realistic expectations for yourself and your team members.
- Set up a productive home-office space, even if it’s just a corner in your bedroom or living room. Make sure your charger, pens, favorite journal, and everything else you need for work are within reach. Everyone who’s home should have their own space if possible.
- Spruce it up! Hang up your favorite picture, surround yourself with plants, or add a fuzzy blanket to make the space more appealing.
GET TECH READY
- Explore and download the new tools you’ll need for remote work. Whether that’s conferencing capability like Hangouts and Zoom, or project management tools like Asana or Trello, download them now.
- Don’t be intimidated! If you haven’t used these tools before, the most important thing to know is that they are user friendly. If you’re struggling, ask your peers for help as you’re getting up to speed.
- If your kids are in online school, they’re probably using some of the same tools so download and learn together.
WHAT ABOUT THE KIDS?
- If your work doesn’t allow you to look after a little one, try to find a sitter. With older kids in online school and extracurricular activities canceled, it shouldn’t be hard to find one. Or, ask an older sibling to pitch in.
- If work and childcare are simply too much, talk to your employer about using time off or working part time.
- If your school isn’t going online keep your kids engaged with online lesson plans, board games, reading, and art.
- Create an exercise routine, schedule “recess” and find videos your kids can use to burn off steam. They’ll need periodic breaks and so will you, so take them together.
- Kids of all ages enjoy baking and making crafts. Stock up on supplies. Hint: While big stores are out of flour and even eggs, smaller markets are still well stocked.
- If you’re into DIY gifts, get a head start and plan for birthdays or holidays. There’s nothing like an extra set of hands to help.
- Don’t expect too much. Most kids are not used to being isolated from their friends, and may not have long attention spans for online classes. Help them adjust.
MAKE QUICK, HEALTHY EATING EASY
With everyone at home, you’ll want to stock up on food that is quick, easy, and healthy.
- Plan and prep ahead of time. Choose simple recipes and prep all you can in advance. That might mean chopping vegetables, putting rice on, or cutting up fruit for a mid-morning snack. You can also make a large batch of soup, and freeze it.
- Stock up on healthy snacks like nuts, fruit, and trailmix. Everyone’s going to grab whatever is easiest and food affects your mood. Too many sugary snacks will have the family spiking then getting cranky. Not good for close quarters.
- Sign up for a service like PostMates so you can order delivery in a pinch. My daughter loves smoothies and soups from plant based Daily Harvest – they’re easy to make (just add water) and your order can be updated weekly.
FIND WAYS TO MANAGE ANXIETY
- These are hard and uncertain times for everyone so focus on what’s in your control. That includes social distancing, hand washing, extra cleaning, and overall good hygiene.
- Check the news, but don’t obsess over it. Limit the number of times you check for updates. Looking up virus stats every few minutes is distracting and anxiety provoking.
- Kids see everything, so try to stay optimistic and focus on the facts. If you are panicking or overreacting, your kids likely will too.
- If you’re feeling triggered, seek help from your spouse, friends, a mentor, therapist, or coach. Take care of yourself and get the support you need.
The COVID-19 situation and guidance is changing rapidly. Please continue to consult World Health Organization COVID-19 Information and local information as it relates to gatherings of any kind.
If your team needs help with remote work, or if you want to offer extra support to working parents contact us – info@reverbpeople.com
