It’s been three years since COVID-19 transformed the way we work and live our daily lives, and virtual work and the concept of remote work are quickly becoming the norm.
The new work arrangement is not only about managing to work productively but also juggling household and family responsibilities, especially when it comes to parenting school-aged children during school breaks.
In this blog, we’ll explore some helpful tips and tricks for parents to maintain a steady balance between work, parenting, home, and family.
Communicate your schedule
It’s essential to communicate with your leadership and team about your schedule. Be clear about your working hours and times to meet or be available on calls or video. Also, communicate your family-related appointments and activities so that work can be scheduled around them.
Create a schedule
Create a schedule for both you and your kids. Ensure it includes homework, dinner, leisure time, and time for a relaxing bedtime routine. This schedule will help you and your family to stick to a routine and structure your day, which helps maintain a sense of normalcy. Try to be flexible and adjust the schedule as needed but ensure a basic structure is in place.
Start the day off right for everyone
Preparing your clothing and lunch for the next day the night before is a great way to save time and relieve stress in the morning. This will also help you to get ready promptly in the morning. A prepared morning will set the tone for the rest of the day.
Designate work and study areas
Set boundaries for your workspace and your kids’ schoolwork area. Make sure everyone knows the designated areas and understands the rules and expectations. This will help ensure everyone has their space and can work/study without interruptions.
Have patience and make concessions
You’ll have a few “off” days, so take these in stride. It’s essential to be patient with yourself and your kids and give yourself some grace. Be prepared to make concessions and adjust your schedule to accommodate unexpected appointments or other temporary issues.
Create pockets of time to work and take breaks
Schedule a lunch break so everyone can enjoy a meal together, even if it’s just a quick 15-minute break to grab a snack and chat. Also, create pockets of time for work and study, and take short, frequent breaks to refresh, stretch, or enjoy a snack. This will help take the edge off and maintain focus throughout the day.
Be empathetic and flexible as a manager and team member
Being empathetic to your colleagues and your family’s needs is important. Recognize that everyone is navigating this new world as best as possible and that everyone’s situation is different. Be flexible and understanding to create a supportive work environment for all.
Know that you’re not alone
Working from home and juggling parenting responsibilities can be challenging. However, remember that you’re not alone. Many others find themselves in similar situations. Reach out to your colleagues, managers, or caregivers for advice or tips on how they are managing, and try incorporating them into your routine.
Balancing work and family life is challenging but not impossible. By implementing a few tips and tricks like communicating with your management and colleagues, scheduling your time, and creating boundaries, you can establish a successful routine that works for you and your family. It is important to be patient and understanding as challenges will arise, but a great attitude and a clear understanding of what everyone’s needs are can enable a productive work-life balance.
Finally, remember you are not alone; the key to success is reaching out to your support group at work and in your personal life. For more resources to help you find a work-life balance, visit your Member Resource Hub!