Running a company when you have children at home is more of an art than a science and it calls for a different approach from the norm. So if you feel that you are swimming against the flow in your day, here are a few tips for work-at-home moms to stay productive and profitable during summer breaks (or anytime).
- Summer Homework. Depending on the age of your child, the school they attend may have them to complete assignments in preparation for the upcoming school year. This is also a great way to refresh and reinforce concepts that they have already learned. Some children are eager to get assignments as soon as summer vacation begins but a better option is to give them one assignment to do each day.
- Supplement Assignments. You can add to homework by giving them fun lessons to do on their own. Have them create art, science, reading, or math projects to augment learning. Provide a reward for going the extra mile.
- Chores. Children complain less when they have something to keep them occupied. If your child is old enough to help out around the house then a few light assignments each day will keep their boredom blahs to a minimum. This also buys you some time during the day to get your business projects done.
- Office Help. In lieu of chores, older children can also assist you with running your home office. You could also use this time to help them develop their natural talents by assigning them to work that enhance their skill set.
- Swap childcare. Talk with a neighbor to see if they would like to exchange a few days with you. This especially comes in handy when you have projects that need to be done on time.
- Summer Reading. Many children love to read and most would not pass up an opportunity to hang out with their peers while doing it. Check your calendar and try to coordinate meetings or time sensitive projects when during the hours when children are away at camp.
- Alternative Summer Office Locations. When all is said and done you may simply find it is impossible to get anything done when the children are at home. In those cases a backup plan is the answer. Some places where you can pack up your lap top and plug away include the library, coffee shop, a business incubator, friend or relative’s home that works during the day, in a park, or by the lake.
A home office can be the best of both worlds for mompreneurs. By putting these easy to execute short-cuts in place you will create the lifestyle you love and have more time to create the profits you desire!
