COVID19 is majorly affecting people across the world. In the current crisis, it is majorly affecting productivity when we are home alongside our kids with no choice and in unsuitable spaces. It is thus creating a productivity disaster for many organizations.
The global work from the home act is intended to keep up the output and efficiency going during the pandemic which could actually result in a productivity stump and intimidate economic growth for years. Amidst other work from home obstacles, the most challenging part is to work with younger kids and managing them.
Schools are shut and all outdoor activities and social communication have stopped too. In such hard times, keeping kids engaged with interactive activities is a difficult task. Moreover, for a perfect work-life balance, parents are working hard to take care of their children while doing their jobs and not losing their minds.
How do parents need to solve this?
1. Make them understand
Talk to your children and make them understand what is happening at an appropriate age level. Explain the situation using the movies which they watch. Make them understand by giving examples. Another way is to keep them busy by planning their day. Having an engaging activity planned for an entire day may keep them entertained and busy.
2. Say Yes to an early morning routine
Kids usually take their time to start the day. Manage your routine in a way when you can contribute more. Work extensively when your kids are sleeping. Besides, work more when they are busy for the day and with supplement activities. Setting an early morning routine will give you at least three to four hours of serious concentration.
3. Give them attention
While kids are idle all of a sudden, parents are not on a holiday. Children usually don’t understand the criticality of attending meetings and replying to emails. To give them your attention which they also truly deserve, explain when you will be available to play and when you are busy. Schedule your playtime and ensure you finish your work when they are asleep. Also, add interesting activities in their schedule or pursue a hobby. Take short breaks and spend time with them too.
4. Involve them in chores
Some parents may really find it helpful to engage their kids in household chores. Involve them in cleaning rooms or arranging cupboards. Rearrange sticker books, toys and puzzles and make them arrange it again. Try to involve them in physical activities. Search on the internet for various games and activities. Make them learn gardening or play games with them with a motive to involve them in household work.
5. Divide Your Work
Divide your work with your spouse who maybe or maybe not working from home. Take chances one by one of managing your children and home at once. Plan to divide up your duties and essential working hours. This will help to manage everyone’s expectations.
Adjusting to these new circumstances is the key to your work-life balance. Try to maintain normalcy and take things easy. It will take time but eventually will work out slowly and gradually. Make a concerted effort to enjoy the family time and work together and understand the importance of kindness and respect even if your kids are not cooperating.