by Timiarah A. Camburn

Created on: December 18, 2010   Last Updated: December 20, 2010

Working from home with a toddler is difficult as toddlers can be very demanding and equally energetic. They do not have the capacity to understand that mommy needs quiet in order to complete assignments or that she cannot play with the toy cars and trucks until she meets her deadlines. It can be quite challenging trying to work around a toddler but with careful planning and patience an effective schedule can be created.

Luckily most work at home positions allow a person to make her own hours. This leaves a bit of flexibility to adapt to the needs of the toddler. Try to get as much work as possible done while the little one is asleep. It may mean getting up at 4 a.m. or not getting to bed until such a time, but a great deal of tasks can be completed in the wee hours.

Steady nap times should also be set during the day. A good rule of thumb is to lay the child down at some time between noon and one in the afternoon. This will allow for a few more hours of uninterrupted working while he is visiting the sand man. Naps should be a maximum of two hours only. A toddler who sleeps for more than a few hours for a nap may be jumping up and down on the bed late at night. No more than two hours should be allowed for a toddler nap.

Everyone needs a break at some point, even the work at home mom. Too much time in front of a computer can lead to sore eyes, painful bottoms, and crooked backs. Also, toddlers need much attention, so bonding breaks should be taken every few hours of work for mother and child. This can be a time when the two can take a nice walk together or visit the playground. On the next break they may color together or play with the little toy cars and trains. On the next break mommy could read a book to her toddler and so on. Taking breaks will not only give mom her second and third wind after tedious hours of work, but it will also let the toddler know he is loved and appreciated.

If just those few simple guidelines are followed then working at home with a toddler can be doubly rewarding. A stay at home mom will be able to make money for the household and enjoy being home with her toddler and watching him grow.

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