4 Tips to Help Work-From-Home Parents Balance Work and Family This Summer
Working from home has a lot of perks for parents, but summer definitely throws some curveballs our way.
It’s great to have the flexibility to be with family more and save on childcare, work clothes, and food. But let’s be real—kids need a lot of attention. Little ones want to play, have friends over, and go swimming, while older kids bring their own set of distractions.
Meanwhile, work doesn’t stop - clients are calling, emails are piling up, and the to-do list keeps growing.
So, how can we make this summer at home more enjoyable and still get our work done? It’s totally doable! Here are a few ideas you can start using right away.
Routines All-Around
A daily routine can really help keep things calm and stress-free for everyone. Be sure to schedule both playtime and work time each day. Let the kids know when you need to focus on work and when it's time for fun. This helps set clear expectations and gives everyone something to look forward to. The kids feel secure, and you can tackle your to-do lists.
Goals Keep Us Going
Setting goals is a game-changer for getting stuff done. A clear picture of what you need to accomplish keeps you on track when your energy starts to dip. And what a great boost it is when you achieve your goals! When your energy starts to dip, having goals can keep you on track. Kids love setting and hitting their own goals too, so make it a family thing. Use the SMART framework to keep your goals Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Results-focused, and Timely. And most importantly, keep it fun!
Be Creative with Childcare
Finding childcare in the summer can be tough and expensive, but there are ways to make it work. If you’re working full-time, a nanny or a summer day camp like Camp Chepontuc at the Glens Falls YMCA could be a great fit. For those with flexible or part-time schedules, a bit of creativity can go a long way in saving costs and keeping your kids entertained. Try coordinating with your spouse or swapping childcare with a neighbor or mom friend. Planning is key here - get the family together, check out local recreation centers, libraries, and summer school programs online. Crandall Public Library offers tons of activities for kids of all ages.
Here are a few more Glens Falls area childcare options to consider:
Center for Early Learning Fun & Educational Summer Camp -
Miss Kelsey's Drop-In Childcare
Q Club through Queensbury Parks and Rec
PEP Summer Camp through Lake George Youth Commission
Scheduling your work hours when your kids are busy with activities they enjoy is a win-win for everyone.
Home is Where the Heart Should Be
We all know the chaos at home can be a major distraction. Managing the family takes a lot out of you, leaving little time for much else. Chores pile up, and Netflix sounds like a nice reward for all your hard work. Escaping to a coffee shop might seem like a good idea until you realize how uncomfortable it is and that you’re just trading one distraction for another. That’s why coworking is becoming a top choice for parents who need to get stuff done. Shared workspaces help you find motivation and focus without home distractions. If you’re craving more separation between work and home life, a flexible coworking membership could be just what you need. You can tackle your to-do list and make your home a place for guilt-free family time.
Getting your work done and enjoying your family this summer is possible. At WorkSmart, we make that easier for you. You can dive into work without distractions, surrounded by other parents who get what you’re going through. Our membership plans are flexible to fit your summer routines. Get in touch with us to check out the space. We’d love to help you have a fantastic summer.