How to Thrive as a Work-From-Home Dad Whose Kids Are Doing Online Learning

By Cherie Mclaughlin

Being a dad who works from home is challenging enough. Add on the fact that your kids will be navigating remote learning, and that presents a whole new set of challenges. Nonetheless, there’s no reason why you can’t thrive at each of these tasks at the same time. And to help you throughout your journey, we’ve provided some essential tips below.

Come up with a plan.

First of all, as Work-from-Home Depot explains, you need a plan. Otherwise, neither you nor your children will succeed at your work. Figure out the times of day your kids will need to sign in to online courses, as well as when they are most productive at their homework. Then, you will need to plan out segments of time where you can get some work done. This may prove simple or feel nearly impossible, depending on the age of your children.

It’s also essential that you have a solid morning routine in place that helps you to start the day off strong. This could include taking a shower, relaxing with coffee, or getting in an hour or two of work before your kids wake up. Moreover, you will need to set boundaries with your family, such as establishing firm work hours and making it clear when you can and cannot be interrupted.

Make learning fun.

These days, there are many ways that you can turn education into a fun game for your children. For instance, teenagers commonly use virtual reality to enhance distance learning, and younger children sometimes participate in online code camps. Whatever kind of educational game you decide to incorporate into your kids’ school days, you will need the right technology as well as a fast, strong connection to the internet.

Make sure you have places to work.

When you’re embracing this lifestyle, one way to set yourself up for success is to designate a workspace for both you and your children. These spaces should be positioned where natural light can flow in through the windows, and there should be adequate space for you to work comfortably. And while you’re at it, make aesthetic improvements to your spaces, whether that means painting the walls a fun color, hanging up your favorite artwork, or making any other changes that motivate you to work.

Get equipped.

Both you and your kids also need certain types of equipment in order to succeed. For you, this might mean investing in a reliable laptop or desktop computer, a desk, and an ergonomic chair, among other things. And make sure that each of your kids also has a reliable computer, as well as a nice set of headphones and any programs necessary for their online learning.

Clock out.

This one often gets overlooked, but it’s critical. When you work from home, just as The Muse explains, you need to clock out when your work hours are done. Otherwise, you will never stop working, and it will eat into essential time that you should be sharing with your family. Even if your office or workspace is just a few steps away from your primary living areas, be sure to leave your work when you’re done each day so that you can focus on your home life.

As a work-from-home dad whose children are doing online learning, you are in a difficult role. But it can also be thoroughly rewarding. Remember to equip everyone appropriately and keep things positive so you can better your chances of succeeding in your role. And most importantly, keep your priorities in line, and work toward finding that perfect balance between work and home life.