Keeping Kids Busy When You’re at Home With Kids and Working

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Being a work from home mom can be challenging, especially if you don’t have child care. I’m very fortunate that my kids go to their Grandmum’s house for the days that I work, but there are times when something urgent has to get done when the kids are home.

Finding ways for keeping kids busy while you focus on work tasks can seem impossible, but it can be done.

This post dives into tips and tricks every working mom can use to make working from home a little easier.

The Role of Screen Time: Use It Wisely

Screen time can feel like a lifesaver when you’re a mom with kids trying to meet a deadline. It’s easy to fall back on it without much thought. But I like to use this as sparingly as possible.

Instead of relying on screens as my primary way of keeping kids busy, I consider it a backup tool.

Tips for Thoughtful Screen Time:

1. Set Time Limits: Establish clear boundaries, such as 30 minutes of educational shows or apps per session.
2. Use Educational Content: Choose programs or apps that engage kids’ minds, such as PBS Kids or National Geographic Kids.
3. Save It for Key Moments: Use screen time strategically during meetings or when tackling tasks requiring deep focus.
4. Involve Them in Choices: Let kids pick from a list of pre-approved options, which makes them feel included.

No judgment if you use screen time to keep your kids occupied. Sometimes it’s the only option.

Creative Ways to Keep Kids Engaged

While screen time has its place, countless other activities can keep your children happily entertained while you’re working from home with kids.

These ideas encourage creativity, independence, and fun while giving you the time you need to focus.

1. Set Up Activity Stations

Create dedicated spaces for different types of play. Rotate activities to keep them fresh and exciting.

• Art Station: Include coloring books, crayons, stickers, and paper for open-ended creativity.
• Building Station: Provide LEGO bricks, blocks, or magnetic tiles to spark their engineering skills. Magnetic tiles are a huge hit in our house—my boys will play with them for long stretches.
• Reading Nook: Stock a cozy corner with books and cushions to encourage quiet time. This one works if you have older children who can read to themselves.
• Puzzle Zone: Offer age-appropriate puzzles for a focused challenge. My 4-year-old has been loving puzzles lately and will happily work on them for a good chunk of time.

Activity stations are a great way to give your kids options while promoting independent play.

2. Embrace Outdoor Adventures

If your work schedule allows, let your kids burn off energy outdoors. Even 30 minutes of outdoor play can make a world of difference for both you and them.

• Backyard Explorations: Set up a scavenger hunt or give them a magnifying glass to investigate nature.
• Water Play: A small kiddie pool, water table, or sprinkler can provide hours of entertainment.
• Obstacle Courses: Create a fun course using household items like hula hoops, cones, or jump ropes.

If you’re able, bring your laptop outside and get some work done while supervising their outdoor play.

3. Encourage Independent Play

This one can be tough, especially if you have a kid who wants you to do everything with them. But if you can manage it, it can be a game-changer for a busy mom.

With the right setup, kids are more willing to entertain themselves while you focus on work. Some ideas include:

• Dress-Up Box: Fill a box with costumes, hats, and accessories for imaginative play.
• Pretend Play Kits: Give them toy kitchens, doctor’s kits, or cash registers to encourage role-playing.
• Storytime Kits: Provide puppets or props to act out their favorite stories.

Teaching kids to enjoy their own company is a skill that benefits them for life.

4. Craft Time with Minimal Supervision

Craft projects can keep kids occupied for long periods, especially if they’re age-appropriate and require minimal intervention.

• Sticker Books: A low-mess option for younger kids.
• Paper Crafts: Origami, paper chains, or simple card-making are great for older kids.
• DIY Jewelry: Provide beads and string for them to create their own accessories.

Keep a bin of craft supplies handy for quick access when you need to buy some extra time.

Structuring the Day for Balance

Structure can be your best friend when you’re home with kids and juggling work. A daily routine not only helps with keeping kids busy but also ensures they know what to expect.

Sample Routine:

1. Morning Energy Burn: Start the day with physical activities to get the wiggles out.
2. Focused Play: Transition to quieter activities like puzzles or crafts.
3. Screen Time Break: Use screens strategically during meetings or high-priority tasks.
4. Lunch and Family Time: Take a break to connect over a meal.
5. Afternoon Quiet Time: Encourage reading, napping, or independent play.
6. Wrap-Up Fun: End the day with something interactive, like baking or a family game.

A predictable schedule helps kids feel secure and makes it easier for you to plan your work tasks.

Making Time for Yourself

As a working mother, it’s easy to prioritize everything and everyone over yourself. But taking care of your own needs is crucial for long-term success.

Self-Care Tips for Busy Moms:

• Quick Breaks: Step outside for fresh air or enjoy a hot cup of tea.
• Mini Workouts: Squeeze in a 10-minute yoga session or stretch while the kids play.
• Connect with Friends: A quick call or text exchange can boost your mood.
• Celebrate Small Wins: At the end of the day, acknowledge what you

If you want more tips on incorporating self-care into your workday, check out this post.

Work Smarter, Not Harder

Working from home with kids is only possible if you can be productive. Here are some additional working mom tips to help you thrive:

• Learn how to prioritize tasks: Ensuring you’re working on the most important can help you get more done.
• Start time blocking: learn how to block out time for specific tasks, so you’re not wasting time jumping from one thing to another.
• Batch Tasks: Group similar tasks together to improve efficiency.
• Plan your day ahead of time: Plan your day ahead of time so you don’t waste time trying to figure out what you should be doing.

Check out this post for more productivity hacks for work from home moms.

Finding the Balance

Balancing work and parenting isn’t always easy, but with the right strategies, it’s absolutely possible.

By focusing on keeping kids busy through creative activities, thoughtful screen time use, and a structured routine, you can create a harmonious environment that works for everyone.

Being a working mom is hard. Give yourself grace, stay flexible, and don’t forget to celebrate the small victories each day.