When you have an established time to perform a specific set
of tasks, that's a routine, and it can work wonders for the family, writes
blogger Cheryl Butler, whose eight kids range in age from 14 to 26.
If you're working from home while your kids are homeschooling or remote
learning, try her suggestions for setting up routines. If everyone knows what to
expect throughout the day, they'll be prepared and less anxious.
Stick to your morning schedule, even if the whole family
is staying home. It's tempting to sleep in when you don't have to be
somewhere on time, but it works best to agree on a family wake-up time and
observe it faithfully. Be ready with healthy but quick breakfast options on
work and study days. And send the kids off to the computer with a hug and good
wishes.
Get set up for the day. Go over the remote learning
schedule and make sure the necessary supplies are on hand, as well as
headphones or ear buds to minimize distractions. Activity boxes with art
materials and craft projects should be available to keep younger kids busy
while you're working. Schedule small blocks of time to spend with your child
regularly during the day.
Set work rules. If you're working at home, talk to
your children about the importance of your work, and make it clear which
periods of time you can't be interrupted. Define the word “emergency” and quiz
them on what constitutes a reason to interrupt. Encourage independence by
expressing confidence in their problem-solving skills.
Make the dinner routine important. Plan dinner way
ahead so you're not rushing at the last moment. Shop with ingredients in mind
for dinners your family likes.
Be consistent with bedtime routines. Parents need
time to wind down after the kids go to sleep, so don't let them stay up late.
Arrange items they'll need in the morning, supervise bathing and
tooth-brushing, and then read a bedtime story together. Teens may need time to
talk to you as well.
Establish your own downtime. Whether it means getting
up early before the kids are up or taking a bath while your partner reads a
bedtime story, make sure you get some time to yourself.