Work - Family

Reality Check: Balancing Work and Child

I work from home -- how do I balance work and kid time?

By Denene Millner, Parenting
 
See Also
Top 10 Articles for Mom Calm - Parenting.com
Q. I work from home, and I feel like I completely ignore my 16-month-old, even when she's in the same room. How do I balance work and kid time?

It isn't easy -- I know from being a work-at-home mom. You're juggling three jobs at once: the paying gig, caring for your baby, and caretaker of the house. And you feel like you're not doing any of them effectively, especially the babycare. You have to trust you're doing the best you can.

You can't spend every second of the day with her, so don't beat yourself up. Make the most of the time you do have together. I schedule a lunch break and a few 20-minute breaks during the day (just like office workers) so that my girls and I can do something together, whether it's sharing a snack or drawing pictures.

When Lila was a baby, I hired a sitter to take her out for an hour every other day. I was amazed at what I could get done -- and how less guilty I felt knowing that she was active and engaged. Guess what? Both of my kids are just fine -- and confident that their mom works hard and loves them all the same.



PRINT
Quick Poll

Adult toys in the bedroom -- a do or a don't?

Yes, yes, yes!
Sure, in theory, but I'd be too embarrassed!
No way. We're lovers not porn-stars.


ADVERTISEMENT
Popular on Parenting.com
Popular on Parenting.com
 
Photo Galleries

20 Mom Tattoos

You asked for them! 20 more inked-up mamas, Parenting readers, and staff members and the personal stories behind their skin art

promotion
 

Blog: The Daily Fave

Shawn: "Sure, it helps to know what a mucus plug is, but mostly guys need books that offers simple, streamlined, practical info that doesn't get bogged down with a lot of 'medical diagrams' or 'compound sentences.' Well have I got the book for you, Pops." Updated frequently.

Blog: The Parenting Post

Mighty Maggie: "I have been in charge of the family finances for about a year now and I STILL DON'T KNOW WHAT I AM DOING." Updated Daily!

The Best Toys of 2009

We're giving away over $900 worth of toys! Enter BOTH giveaways once a day until December 14
Birthday Parties

31 Amazing Birthday Cake Designs

Sweet! The easiest, cutest cakes for boys and girls