How to work from home with a baby-2? Make sure you read the article to the end…
Working from home is one of the greatest things in the world. But what happens when you have a baby? Suddenly, you have two hours of sleep and four cups of coffee, and you’re trying to change a baby’s diaper with one hand while typing away with the other.
Babies and toddlers don’t always make the best colleagues. So how do new moms and new dads manage to work from home while also taking care of their little ones?
I reached out to four moms—also freelance writers—and asked for their top tips on how to work remotely with a baby. Below, you will find their best practical advice and insights from their own experiences with their kids.
1. Develop a routine
Routines are beneficial for both you and your child. A consistent routine can help keep things organized in the chaotic world of parenting.
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As you and your baby get to know each other better, try to establish—and maintain—a similar schedule daily.
Talk to other parents and medical professionals for advice and tips on how to set sleep routines. It’s important to remember that what works for some parents may not work for others. Try to find out what works for you and your family.
Mwangi’s advice on remaining flexible was to “plan your weekly routine ahead of time.” She uses a weekly planner that she updates every Sunday morning, which gives her an idea of what the week will look like and allows her to adjust her work and personal schedule accordingly.
2. Take advantage of playtime
Similarly, you may want to do some work while your child is occupied with play. This isn’t the time to do deep work because you might get distracted. But if you can get some work done while your baby is occupied, that’s a bonus!
3. Work different hours
When you have a baby on the way, your typical 9-5 workday doesn’t always have to be the same.
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If your work provides you with the flexibility to work outside of the normal hours, working outside the normal hours may be better for you.
Some parents like to work late at night while the baby naps, while others prefer to get up early to work on their most important work before the baby gets up.
Mwangi emphasizes that it’s important for parents to be flexible. “I work at night, so it’s easier for me to work after everyone has gone to bed, especially if the baby has already gone to bed,” she says. “For some, it may be better to get up early before they wake up and work on their most urgent work.”
4. Take turns with your partner
If you and your spouse work from home, it may make sense to share the workload. For example, one parent can feed and entertain the baby, while the other takes the time to focus on work.
You and your spouse can also use a shared calendar and planner. This way, you and your spouse can stay up to date with important appointments and work obligations throughout the day.
By taking “shifts,” you can both work while also taking care of the baby.
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5. Communicate with the team or client
When you’re working from home with an infant or toddler, it’s important to be honest with your clients, managers, and colleagues.
Even though you may be trying to work as efficiently as possible, there are going to be interruptions. Don’t pretend everything is okay and drop the ball.
Be transparent about your situation and schedule. For instance, if you’re working non-linear work days or non-traditional hours and need time off to take care of your baby, let your clients, managers, or colleagues know.
Communicate your availability for meetings and core working hours so there’s no misunderstanding.
This sets realistic expectations for your colleagues and allows you to spend time with your baby guilt-free without feeling like you have to be responsive to work items as they come up.
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6. Use a baby carrier while working
If you can, make the most of it. Many parents find that carrying their baby against their chest is a great way to snuggle while still allowing them to focus on work.
Belmonte has previously discussed the importance of having a clutter-free workspace and believes that babywearing is a great way for parents to stay productive.
“Try to carry your baby as often as you can to stay close to you without compromising your productivity,” Belmonte says. “This is especially useful during naps, as babies often stay asleep for longer when they’re on your chest.”
7. You should consider taking breaks
It can be easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of working from home and being a parent. To be the best parent possible and do your job to the best of your ability, you need to take time for yourself.
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Make it a priority to take breaks and recharge. Rawlinson reminds parents that “there is no such thing as perfect parenting, but there are a million ways to just be good enough.” Take some of the pressure off and make time for yourself regularly.
Wrapping Up
You might want to consider freelancing if you don’t feel like you’re getting enough flexibility from your current job.
Many new parents find that freelancing gives them the flexibility they need to adjust to taking care of their newborn.
As a freelancer, you have the freedom to set your schedule, work around your children, and create businesses that help you balance work and family life.
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