Working from home with kids can be a balancing act, especially with the lack of affordable and sustainable childcare for working moms. During the pandemic, my son’s daycare closed, we were social distancing from others, and I was still had obligations to work. Childcare was (and still is) not consistent. While schools and daycares are open, safe childcare is still out of reach and spotty for so many, including me, which often results in having to watch your kids at home while you work-from-home.
Finding activities to keep your children busy while you focus on your work is essential for maintaining productivity and creating a harmonious work-life balance. I’ve compiled a list of ten engaging activities that can help keep your children occupied and entertained while you work from home.
- Set up a designated workspace: Create a mini office space for your child near your workspace. Provide them with a desk, chair, and their own set of stationery items. This will make them feel involved and important, imitating your work environment, and allowing them to engage in pretend play. Make sure to include toys that have moving components such as a dump truck. This encourages your little ones to engage in more imaginary play.
- Arts and crafts: Engage your child in arts and crafts activities, such as painting, drawing, or making collages. Provide them with various art supplies like coloring pencils, markers, paper, and scissors. Encourage their creativity and display their artwork in your workspace to make them feel proud.
- Educational apps and websites: Utilize educational apps and websites that offer interactive and age-appropriate content. Look for platforms that offer games and activities aligned with your child’s learning needs and interests. Set screen time limits and ensure they engage in a healthy mix of educational and recreational activities.
- Reading and storytelling: Encourage your kiddo to develop a love for reading by setting aside dedicated reading time. Provide them with age-appropriate books, magazines, or e-books. Amazon Fire Tablets have great e-books that read to your kiddo.
- Puzzles and board games: Engage your child in puzzles and board games that promote problem-solving and critical thinking skills. Choose games suitable for their age and cognitive abilities. Not only will this keep them occupied, but it will also foster their intellectual development. My 3 year old is in love with Connect 4 right now.
- Sensory play: Sensory play activities, such as playing with kinetic sand, water beads, or sensory bins filled with rice or beans, can provide hours of engagement for children. These activities stimulate their senses and allow for exploration and imaginative play. Kinetic sand has gotten me through SO many meetings!
- Indoor treasure hunt: Create a fun and interactive indoor treasure hunt by hiding small objects or clues around the house. Provide your child with a treasure map or a list of hints, and let them embark on a quest to find the hidden treasures. This activity promotes problem-solving, imagination, and physical activity.
- Cooking and baking: Involve your child in simple cooking and baking activities. Choose age-appropriate recipes that they can actively participate in, like making cookies or sandwiches. This not only keeps them occupied but also teaches them valuable life skills. My 3 year old is obsessed with pretend ‘cutting’ strawberries with plastic utensils.
- Virtual playdates: Schedule virtual playdates with your child’s friends or family. Set up a zoom call or FaceTime to allow your kiddo to interact and play games together remotely. This helps maintain social connections and provides an opportunity for cooperative play. I’ve even had team members I trust play with my little one on camera while I take a quick bio break!
- Outdoor activities: When you have breaks or after work hours, engage in outdoor activities with your child. Go for a walk, ride bikes, or play games in your backyard or nearby park. Fresh air and physical activity are vital for their well-being and can also tire them out for a restful afternoon.
Balancing work and parenting while working from home can be challenging, but incorporating these engaging activities into your routine can help keep your kids occupied and entertained. Remember to set clear boundaries and communicate expectations with your child to ensure a harmonious environment. By providing a variety of activities and involving them in your daily routine, you can create a positive and productive atmosphere that benefits both you and your children. You got this, mama!