We don't need to remind you more about the uncertainties the world is facing amidst growing coronavirus concerns. Our lives are changing a bit more each day - including news of school closures and entire offices shifting to work from home. Whether you are a professional in the art of WFH or you are brand new and have no idea what WFH stands for, here are a few tips that will help you limit difficulties and maximize productivity when you work from home with your kids.
Tip #1:
Stay ahead of your schedule…
Create a daily schedule for you and your youngster - and stick to it! Falling into a solid routine every day is going to help boost your productivity while also setting the tone for your child. Be sure to schedule things that break up the day like lunch time, play time, nap time, and TV time. If you are sharing your home office with another adult, divide responsibilities throughout the day and work as a team so both of you accomplish your normal duties. Always leave a little extra room for flexibility in your schedule so you're ready if something unexpected pops up.
Tip #2:
Sleeping on the job…
If your child is still in the age range where nap time makes sense, then you know that nap time is a glorious time! What you choose to do with it is up to you, and it all depends on your rhythm and your situation. If you need the quiet time to catch up on work and meetings, block out nap time and schedule calls or work that requires more attention and focus. Consider adding a baby monitor to your home security so that you can always keep a watchful eye on your kids without disrupting your work - make sure to keep it on or mute if you’re in a meeting! Maybe nap time is when you finally get a chance to grab a bite to eat yourself. If so, go for it! Skipping meals is a sure way to decrease your productivity when working from home. What you choose to do with this time is up to you! Just make sure you are getting the most out of your GLORIOUS nap times.
Tip #3:
Practice makes perfect…
All new things take practice, more practice, and (if you're anything like me) even more practice until they are second nature. WFH with children is certainly something that takes a bit of work. That is why communication is going to be essential in order to achieve long-term success. Set expectations with your little angel and check in to make sure that they are being met. Reinforce good behavior with a positive reward! Also make sure to discuss things like boundaries and what you need from them in order to succeed throughout your workday. Then all that's left is practice! There's nothing to it but to do it.
Tip #4:
A game we both can play…
Working from home doesn't have to feel like work for your young one. Help keep them happy and you may find that it rubs off on your day. Consider setting up a fun to-do list for them and reward them at the end of the day for checking off all the items. Pick up a fun and educational toy or video game that they can play when you need some quiet time. If you have an important call or virtual meeting, don't be afraid to put on your child's favorite movie or show to keep them busy. Another great idea is to create a busy box filled with crayons, colored pencils, coloring books, construction paper, and blocks - anything that can buy you some focus time when you need it most.
Tip #5:
Just another day at the office…
One of the most important steps to make working from home a seamless transition is to set up a home office that works for you. Consider making this area a kid-free zone to foster creativity and solid workflow. AFR Furniture Rental carries a wide variety of office desks and chairs, bookcases, file cabinets, and anything else you may need to keep up the good work in a home office that you love. Ordering is fast and simple and AFR handles delivery, setup, and pick up - so you don't have a room full of furniture you don't need when we all return to school and work.
Bonus Tip!
Don’t forget! Your kids may also need their own mini-office setup where they can concentrate and focus on schoolwork comfortably. Just be sure to put it way on the other side of the house!
AFR has a home office solution for every member of the family.
Get started today. It's as easy as one, two, three!
Stay safe and healthy - and work from home like a pro!
From your friends at AFR Furniture Rental
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