The recent coronavirus outbreak has meant that millions of parents across the globe are now facing the impossible task of being a parent, worker and teacher.
Getting through your day is difficult enough when you’re trying to work from home with the kids. However, when you also have to home school them at the same time, it can prove to be a real nightmare.
If you’re trying to find the right balance in this unprecedented situation, there are some tips you can follow. Here, we’ll look at some of the steps you can take to accomplish your new role without losing your mind.
Create and work from a schedule
The one thing that’s going to prove invaluable during this time, is creating and maintaining a schedule. The kids need a schedule and you need one to help you keep up with your increased duties.
Start with making a schedule for the kids. You can include educational activities, play time and mealtimes. When they know what they are working on and have a schedule to follow, it makes it so much easier for both them and you. Kids need a routine and they’ll be a lot happier when they’re following one.
Make time for physical activity
It can be tough trying to work when the kids have bundles of energy. So, why not help them burn off that energy so you can work in peace?
Getting them to partake in physical activity helps to wear them out as well as keep them healthy. So, encourage time running around in the back yard. You could cerate a mini assault course or look online for physical games you could play.
Once they’ve finished their physical activity, they will be more likely to play quietly for a period of time.
Don’t try and become a teacher
Now that the kids are off school, you may feel like you have to become a teacher. You really don’t. It’s not your job to research and familiarize yourself with the topics they cover at school.
Instead, focus on educational activities they can do such as reading. You can also set up things such as sensory buckets and let them use educational apps.
If the school provided digital work they can follow, don’t forget to utilize that too. If you look online, you might also find free workbooks they can use.
Talk through any issues with your employer
If you are having issues juggling everything, don’t be afraid to talk to your employer. They may give you additional days off so you can get used to the new arrangement.
Remember, there are a lot of people going through the same situation as you right now. It’s not easy but remind yourself that it is only temporary. The above tips will help you to better juggle your new responsibilities in the time being.
This post is for informational purposes only. It should not be considered therapy. This blog is only for informational and educational purposes and should not be considered therapy or any form of treatment. We are not able to respond to specific questions or comments about personal situations, appropriate diagnosis or treatment, or otherwise provide any clinical opinions. If you think you need immediate assistance, call your local doctor/psychologist or psychiatrist or the SADAG Mental Health Line on 011 234 4837. If necessary, please phone the Suicide Crisis Line on 0800 567 567 or sms 31393.