Wondering how to juggle your work with your children’s remote schooling? There’s no question balancing the two is a challenge. But with a bit of planning – and creativity – you can do it all. Here are some tips to ease the challenge of working and learning at home. View slideshow.
Separate work life from home life
One of the most important things you can do during this time is keep your work life and home life separate. You can achieve this by establishing a routine. For example, the hours between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. are dedicated to work. But when the clock hits 5 p.m., shut down your laptop and transition to home life. Although it’s tempting, don’t power up again to go back online or catch up on work emails. You can get back to your work to-do list the next day.
Stick to your normal routine
Working at home means working in PJs, right? Although you’re not going into the office, it’s still important to keep your routine as normal as possible. That means waking up at the usual time, putting on your usual work attire and doing your hair and make-up. Taking these steps will help create a sense of normalcy – even if your current office is your kitchen.
Communicate with your workplace and co-workers
Keep your supervisor informed about your situation – for example, if you’re trying to balance working with helping your kids do their schoolwork. It’s also smart to let your co-workers know if your kids are at home in case your regular work hours are affected or in anticipation of interruptions during meetings.
Set boundaries with your partner and kids
Setting expectations can go a long way toward keeping the balance between work life and home life. Start with talking with your partner and kids about your work schedule and when you are and aren’t available. You might try keeping the door closed and let your partner and kids know that they shouldn’t interrupt unless it’s an emergency. However, it’s important that your kids are cared for while you’re working. You and your partner may want to work out a schedule to switch off working and watching the kids.
Create separate working and learning environments
Have set spaces for working and learning – ones without distractions such as a television or video games. For kids, set up a desk or table with the basic school supplies they need to complete their work. If you don’t have separate rooms for everyone, space people out in different areas of the same room.
Find ways to de-stress and have fun
It can’t be all work and no play. Part of balancing work and learning is finding time to de-stress and have a bit of fun. Physical activity is important for both kids and adults. Try walking, hiking or doing yoga as a family. It’s also a good idea to schedule some “me time.” That might include time for meditation, calling a friend or working on one of your hobbies. In addition, it’s important to avoid isolation. Continue to connect with others in different ways, like FaceTime, phone calls and socially distant outdoor gatherings.
Practice “radical acceptance“
Try the approach of “radical acceptance,” which is not approval or agreement, but completely and totally accepting with mind, body and spirit that we cannot change the present facts, even if we do not like them.
De-stress with Edward-Elmhurst Health
Edward-Elmhurst Health provides several options to help people de-stress during these times. We offer in-person and virtual classes and support groups. Our primary care providers can also provide additional tips to help you stay healthy and stress-free while you balance working and learning at home. Make an appointment online or call 630-527-6363.
Linden Oaks can help
Linden Oaks Behavioral Health has a 24/7 Help Line for patients and families who need urgent care: 630-305-5027. Learn more about Linden Oaks’ services, treatment programs and the Linden Oaks Medical Group care team.
