Remote work has become increasingly popular in recent years. It offers the convenience and flexibility of working from home, which can be especially appealing to new parents. While many parents appreciate the opportunity to work from home, it can also pose a unique set of challenges. Remote working parents need to stay productive while taking care of their children. This article will provide practical advice from experts on how to survive remote work with a baby.
Creating a Flexible Schedule
One of the main benefits of remote work is the flexibility it offers. Parents have more control over their schedule and can work around their baby’s needs. However, flexibility doesn’t mean that you have complete control over your schedule. It can still be challenging to balance work and childcare responsibilities.
Dr. Sarah Clark, a developmental psychologist and professor at the University of Tennessee, suggests scheduling time for work in short intervals. “Babies’ needs and attention span are often in short intervals, so some tasks can be completed in those short windows of time,” she says. She advises using nap time and after bedtime to tackle more demanding tasks that require longer periods of focus.
If both parents are working remotely, it may be possible to alternate taking care of the baby, so each person has uninterrupted time for work.
Boundaries are Crucial
One of the most challenging aspects of remote work for parents is the blurring of boundaries between work and home life. It’s hard to stay focused and productive when surrounded by household distractions. It’s also difficult to disconnect from work and create a sense of closure for the day when your office is located in your home.
To combat this, Dr. Sarah advises parents to dedicate a physical space in their home as a workspace. “It’s crucial to have a dedicated workspace,” she emphasizes. “This is especially important for parents who have to be productive and get tasks done.” Creating a designated workspace can help to create a separation between work and home life.
Creating designated work hours can also help to create boundaries around work time. This can be particularly important when working with a team or clients who may not understand the constraints of your schedule. Heather Coleman-Voss, Director of Learning and Development at Remote.co, notes that when working remotely, “you might be expected to be available outside of normal business hours. It’s important to set boundaries and to let people know when you’re available.”
Integrating Baby into the Workday
It’s essential to find ways to integrate your baby into your workday when you work from home. While it can be easy to view your baby as a distraction, taking breaks to interact with your child can increase productivity.
Dr. Sarah advises using baby carriers or slings to hold your baby while working. This creates an opportunity to bond with your child while still completing work tasks. It can also help to soothe the baby and promote restful naps.
Taking breaks to interact with your baby can benefit both you and your child. “Taking breaks to engage with your children may help you be more productive in the long run because it can keep you from feeling guilty about missing out on time with them,” Heather adds.
Communicating with Your Employer
When working remotely with a baby, it’s essential to communicate with your employer about the challenges and limitations of your situation. This can help set realistic expectations and allow for necessary accommodations.
Heather suggests having an open conversation with your employer early on about your situation and what support you need to be successful. “Have an honest conversation with your manager or HR representative about what you need to be successful in your role. Every situation is different, so you need to come prepared to discuss your needs and be willing to negotiate.”
Maintain a Morning Routine
Having a morning routine can put you in the right mindset for the day ahead. Even if your morning routine is simple, like making coffee or taking a shower, it can help you feel more productive.
Get Outside
Taking a break to go outside with your baby can help both of you feel refreshed. Nature has many benefits, including reducing stress and anxiety, boosting mood, and improving focus.
Be Kind to Yourself
Working from home with a baby can be challenging. Remember to be kind to yourself and take breaks when you need them. Don’t expect yourself to be perfect or productive all the time.
Accept Help
Don’t be afraid to ask for help from family, friends, or a babysitter to care for your baby while you work. Accepting help can make a big difference in your productivity and well-being.
Manage Expectations
It’s essential to manage your expectations as a working parent. Some days may be challenging, and you may not get as much done as you hoped. Remember to prioritize and focus on what is most important.
Conclusion
Working from home with a baby can be challenging, but with careful planning and communication, it can also be rewarding. Creating a flexible schedule, setting boundaries, integrating the baby into the workday, and communicating with your employer are all key strategies for success. With the right approach, both work and family life can thrive in a remote work environment.