Working While the Kids Are Home? Seven Tips for a Smoother Summer
Summer is a time of sunshine, spontaneity, and sometimes… stress. If you’re trying to balance work while your kids are home, the days can feel long, chaotic, and full of competing priorities. One minute you’re leading a Zoom call, the next you’re slicing watermelon or refereeing a sibling squabble. And while it’s a privilege to spend more time together, the juggle is real.
Here’s the good news: there’s no perfect way to do it, and you’re not doing it wrong if some days feel like a mess. With a little planning and a lot of flexibility, you can create a summer rhythm that works for everyone.
Here are seven realistic ways to find your footing.
1. Stick to a Loose Routine
Don’t worry, you don’t need a rigid schedule, just a general framework to keep the whole crew on track. Try organizing the day into blocks like morning movement, quiet time, lunch, afternoon play, and evening wind-down. It gives kids a sense of structure while allowing room for flexibility when plans shift.
2. Set Clear Boundaries Around Work
For many parents, communicating “work time” to little ones is one of the hardest parts of working from home. It can help to define a work zone, even if it's temporary. Use visual cues like a closed door, headphones, or a simple sign to let kids know when you’re unavailable. For younger kids, explain what “work time” means and when they can expect your next break together.
3. Plan the Week Ahead
Planning both your work time and family time can help you feel in control. Take 30 minutes at the start of each week to map out key meetings, deadlines, and blocks of time when you'll need support. This makes it easier to schedule activities for your kids or ask for help on the days you know will be packed. Plus, being organized means you can intentionally set time aside to play!
4. Encourage Independent Play
While they’re always on your mind, the truth is that you don’t need to entertain your kids all day. Create easy-access activities they can turn to on their own, such as coloring supplies, puzzles, audiobooks, or outdoor stations. Rotate options every few days to keep things fresh and engaging...and remember: boredom often leads to creativity!
5. Playdates With Other Working Parents
You’re not alone. There is a reason for an abundance of summer camp options. It’s because there are a lot of working parents that are scrambling to find help. So, team up. Consider setting up a twice a week recurring “playdate” with your kid’s friends and rotate houses. It’s guaranteed time to work each week while the kiddos are away and provides a distraction when they are home.
6. Let Screens Be a Tool, Not a Guilt Trip
Even with the best screen-free intentions, there will be days that screen time will save the day. Choose shows or apps you feel good about and use them strategically—during meetings, deadlines, or times when you need quiet. Balance it out with playtime or fresh air when possible, but don’t stress about the occasional extra hour.
7. Communicate With Your Team
If your job allows it, try to be open with coworkers about your availability. Block off family windows in your calendar and adjust your work hours if needed.
Remember, many people are navigating similar challenges and will appreciate your honesty!
You’ve Got This—Seriously.
Balancing work and family during summer isn’t easy, but it’s doable. Remember that every family’s rhythm looks different, and what works for someone else might not work for you. Whether your days are full of activities, screen time, camp drop-offs, or creative chaos at home, there’s no perfect formula.
If today was tough, there’s always tomorrow. And if you're showing up with love and intention, you're already doing a great job!
