How to Keep Your Kids Entertained While You’re Working

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The stay at home mom is swiftly becoming a thing of the past. Sure, we always have some time to focus on
our family, but for many of us the work has to go on. There’s a lot to juggle when you work from a home
office. You’ve got to deliver results, or the arrangement won’t last. But it isn’t always easy for your kids
to understand that there are certain times you can’t give them the level of attention they want. So for their
satisfaction and your sanity, you’ve got to come up with ways to keep them entertained while you’re on the
job. Here’s a look at a few methods you can use to get your work in even while the little ones are around.

For the toddlers. Toddlers are tough, because you generally can’t leave them alone. But there are ways to
keep them entertained while you work. One interesting idea is to try a play exchange. I know, you might
think I’m crazy to suggest bringing a second toddler into the space when you have to work, but consider
it for a second. You may have to get them started, but more often than not they’ll spend the afternoon
entertaining each other. They can hang around nearby, but won’t need as much from you. And it’ll come
back to you twofold when the other parent takes both the kids off your hands for a while. That will
guarantee at least a day or two a week of complete quiet. If a play date doesn’t work for you, think about
giving your kid his own keyboard to play with. Toddlers are like little sponges, and if he sees you tapping
away on the keyboard, he’s going to want to do the same. Give them their own, and they’ll be more than
content. Or finally, pick up a big tub of nontoxic bubbles. Every once in a while, take a bubble break. You
can blow bubbles while still focusing on your work, and it will entertain your little toddler during those
moments when they just won’t leave your alone.

For preschoolers. Now they’re talking more, and they’re much more active. So your entertainment is going
to have to be a bit more interactive. Think about turning your lunch breaks into real events. You’ve got to
take lunch after all, and it’s a great opportunity to wear them out for a quiet and focused afternoon. Pack a
lunch and take your preschooler to the park or the library. Give them a solid hour of activity, and they’ll be
much more likely to leave you be. If you don’t have the time to leave your desk, set up a little art area in
your office to keep them occupied. Preschool children love to draw, paint and color, so stock the room with
art supplies, and they’ll be plenty busy. Finally, take some time to get them playing outside. If the weather
is with you, an hour of running around outdoors will buy you several hours of peace while your little one
knocks out for a nap.

For older kids. Once they’re school age, a child’s needs and wants change dramatically. So what can you
do to get them involved in stuff that gives you time to get work done? Consider letting your child go “free
range”. Free range parenting is an old idea that’s become popular again. Helping your child become self-
reliant and confident is one of the greatest gifts you can give them. It doesn’t mean you don’t care, but
letting them ride their bike to the library or a friend’s house, or allowing them to cook their own lunch will
help them grow and develop while giving you the time to get your work done. If you’re not comfortable
with this, think about letting them help you with your work. Older children will be interested in what you’re
doing, and will love the opportunity to help mom out. Let them handle online research you need to do, or
open envelopes, pack boxes, or otherwise manage the simple tasks that don’t take a rocket scientist. They
may surprise you with their usefulness. If that doesn’t work, think about traditional entertainment. Books,
movies, or music should keep them occupied for a couple of hours. There are even some video games that
you’ll feel comfortable leaving your child with. Check out Roller Coaster Tycoon 3 for one family friendly
game, or download free games online to give them a fun distraction for the afternoon.