What is your work-at-home job/business?
Years ago, when my daughter was young, I did phone opinion surveys.
How many kids do you have? List their ages.
She was about 12 months then.
How many hours a week do you work?
I worked 12-16 hours a week, but it could be more.
How Do You Work at Home Without Paid Childcare?
I was generally able to do my work during nap time or in the evening after my daughter's bedtime and when my husband was home. However, if my daughter was fussy and I was alone, things could get frustrating. I did not get paid for a survey unless the person I phoned completed all of the questions, so I hated to stop to comfort the baby when she was fussy and hated to continue when she was upset. Fortunately, it happened rarely.
How Do You Keep Kids Busy While You Work?
I did the bulk of my work during my daughter's nap time or after she went to bed for the night. A crib mobile kept her entertained as she drifted off to sleep and for the first few minutes after she woke up. If she was awake, I would put her in her Jolly Jumper where I could see her, and she would happily bounce up and down for 20-30 minutes or more. If it was evening, my husband was generally there to lend a hand also.
Tips and Tricks
- Make sure your children are settled down before you begin.
- Keep all of your work materials organized and out of the way of small hands.
- Give yourself a break if things don't go perfectly.
- Make "Progress, not perfection" your motto.
