Hi,
My name is Kristine and I am interested in networking with other work-at-home parents and finding solutions for how to have it all and still manage to do it all.
I run a small consulting business, my focus is generally one client/contract at a time so my work week is typically 40-45 hours, plus 5 hours to focus on my business needs like do payroll, bookkeeping, tax reports, etc. I almost always work M-F, but will work nights and weekends as needed to get things done.
During the day my child is at school (5th grade) so it's all business for me, but often I find that after school can be a challenge with keeping her occupied. It's amazing that I am able to be here for her after school when she gets off the bus, but I know she wants to tell me all about her day and sometimes it's just not possible when I have so many responsibilities to juggle with work.
When I can, I set aside a 15 minute break so that she has my undivided attention when she walks in the door. This works about 2 of the 5 work days a week. The other days she understands that when I am in my office (I have a separate home office that is exclusively for work and I close the doors when I "leave" for the day) I am not to be interrupted, but as I mentioned it's hard for her. I've adjusted my work schedule so that I only work an hour past the time she comes home, but again working from home means being flexible and so there are times when I work a few hours later than I planned.
I've thought about having her involved in more after school activities so that I can pick her up after the time I get off work, I've also considered letting her play at her friends' houses after school. Another option I've considered, but It's pointless, is to hire a nanny for an hour a day. I admit I'm guilty of letting the TV or Wii "babysit" while I wrap up projects and calls during the day, but I really wish there was a better solution. She loves to read, I try to encourage quiet time too. She's in the gifted program at school so her homework is usually done in the classroom and so when she's home it's playtime. I know she's at an age where she should entertain herself, but I also understand she wants to spend time with me.
I would love to know if there are any other work-at-home or flex-time parents who have similar challenges, or who have found solutions that work for them that would like to share them here. Any ideas?
Thanks!
Kristine
