Summer is officially here, and after a year of dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic, everyone is ready for a break!
While things are getting back to normal, many businesses have decided to keep their employees remote for the time being. Some are even making a permanent switch.
There are plenty of benefits to working from home. But, when your kids are home all summer, you already know how easy it is for them to run out of things to do. You’re bound to hear the dreaded “I’m bored!” just a few days into their vacation.
Work doesn’t end just because summer begins. So, how can you balance your kids’ summer boredom with working from home? Let’s go over a few tips to keep everyone happy.
Try Age-Appropriate, Imaginative Toys
Depending on how old your kids are, having toys around the house is one of the best ways to keep them entertained. But not all toys are created equal. Something that has one purpose or causes them to lose their interest in a matter of minutes will not help anyone.
Instead, encourage them to play things that spark their imagination. Things like building blocks, Erector sets, K’nex, or even jigsaw puzzles are all great ways to keep them stimulated.
You can even create “challenges” for your kids, by giving them something new to create or build with their toys each day.
Books and AudioBooks
Just because school is out for the summer doesn’t mean the learning needs to stop. It can be hard for your kids to stay motivated with reading over the summer. But, it’s a great way to introduce some “quiet time” each day.
If your kids or teenagers are having trouble finding the motivation to read, try creating “challenges” for them. Set goals for them to read a certain number of pages each day or a certain number of books by the end of the summer. When they have something to work toward, they’re more likely to stick with it.
AudioBooks are great options, too. They’re especially effective for kids who love using technology. As a bonus, they can listen to a book while doing something else, like household chores, or getting some exercise.
Let Them Mimic You
If you have younger kids, they’ll get a kick out of “playing office.” Young children love to imitate their parents. So, set up a makeshift office space for them with a desk, toy computer, etc. Talk to them about your work in ways they’ll understand. They might not get every concept, but they’ll have a better understanding of how important it is, and they can “go to work” themselves!
Take Breaks
One of the biggest benefits of working from home is flexibility. It’s still important to keep a routine each day and set specific working hours. But, it’s just as important to take breaks. You can get burnt out just as easily at home as in an office setting.
So, make a point to spend those breaks with your kids. Get on the floor and play with them. Go outside for a few minutes. Take a walk around the block. Play with the family pet. Those small moments can make a big difference. Not only will they keep your kids entertained, but they’ll soak up every minute they can with you.
Those breaks are beneficial for you, too. Working from home can take a toll on your mental health, especially when you’re still trying to get used to it. Practicing self-care is important.
Balancing time between your kids and remote work doesn’t have to be impossible. Don’t be afraid to get creative. Think about the things your kids enjoy doing and spend as much time with them as you can.