Working remotely while caring for a baby or toddler is a juggling act that I, and many other parents, find overwhelming. Between feeding times, diaper changes, and the never-ending energy of little ones, it often feels impossible to focus on work for more than a few minutes at a time. Some days, I feel like I’m constantly bouncing between answering Teams messages and getting my toddler another snack. It’s exhausting and chaotic, but somehow, work still needs to get done.
There’s no one-size-fits-all solution to making remote work manageable with kids, but I’ve found a few strategies that help me make the most of my work hours while keeping my child happy and engaged. If you’re in the same boat, here are some ideas that might make things a little easier for you, too.
1. Create a Flexible Schedule
Traditional 9-to-5 hours may not work when you have a little one at home. Instead, consider working in blocks of time that align with your child’s natural rhythm. Early mornings, nap times, and after bedtime can be prime opportunities for deep focus work.
I used to wake up extra early and work for two hours before doing anything else. I would literally get out of bed, brush my teeth, and turn on my computer. Then when my baby woke up, I would take the time I needed.
Unfortunately not all companies allow such flexible work schedules. I’ve been super lucky to work for companies that generally don’t mind as long as I’m getting my work done. I’ve always made sure that my work is done on time, even if it means working longer hours. Even now that my kids are older, I sometimes put in an extra hour of work after the kids go to bed to make sure I’m meeting my deadlines.
2. Prioritize Tasks Ruthlessly
Not all work tasks are created equal. Make a list each day of the most important things you need to accomplish and tackle them during your most productive windows. This ensures that even if the day goes off the rails, you’ve handled the essentials.
I’m pretty good at focusing on one task at a time, but when I get overwhelmed with multiple priorities, making a list is the only way. If there is a highest priority, I’ll do that first. But if there are competing priorities, pick the smallest one first so that you can get that one off the table.
Being able to cross (or check) items off a list gives you a sense of progress and productivity. So even if you’re like me and don’t live your life according to a task list, this can be a helpful tool for those stressful situations.
3. Utilize Independent Play
Encouraging independent play is beneficial for both your child’s development and your ability to get work done. Safe play areas with engaging toys, activity stations, or even sensory bins can keep toddlers entertained long enough for you to complete smaller tasks.
Your child wants to be near you, so trying to get them to play in their room or a playroom often won’t last long. Setting up a play space right next to you gives you a better chance of independent play.
My first child was not good at independent play. He needed constant attention and interaction, and it was a real challenge. It was a lot of switching up the play. My second child is much better at independent play. Not always, but once he gets in the zone, he can spend a good chunk of time playing by himself, even in another room. So just do your best with what you have and what your child can handle.
4. Leverage Screen Time Strategically
While screen time can be a touchy subject, using it intentionally for work emergencies can be a lifesaver. A 30-minute episode of a favorite show or an educational app can buy you valuable uninterrupted time when you really need it.
I’ll admit, my kids spend more time on screens than they should. But you gotta do what you gotta do. Maybe that means less screen time on the weekends. For my family, it means making an effort during non-work hours to encourage activities that don’t involve screens.
Some apps that I like that are at least somewhat educational:
- Kiddopia: Engaging games that promote math, science, and problem-solving. Best for ages 3-7. My kids love this, both older and younger. There are a lot of different games within the app to choose from. Their favorite game is Junior Chef’s Cafe, where you get to make different food items “from scratch”, like ice cream, pizza, and french fries. There are also several games that focus on reading. This does require a subscription to unlock all the features. I’ve been paying for it for years because it gets used so often.
- Teach Your Monster to Read: A phonics-based reading app (free online, paid app). Best for ages 3-6. This one is free online, or you can pay a one-time payment for the app. I ended up purchasing the app because my 4 year old can use it easier on an iPad than a computer. You get to design a monster, then take that monster on an adventure searching for letters (younger ages) or books (older ages). I like that this one focuses on letter sounds rather than letter names.
- The Monster at the End of This Book: An interactive book/game based on the classic story. Best for toddlers. This is a beloved book turned into an interactive story, available on both Apple and Android devices. I remember my mom reading this story to me regularly as a kid. There’s a second book/game too!
- Khan Academy Kids – A completely free educational app with no hidden costs. Best for ages 2-8. And it’s actually quite good. You can set up multiple profiles for different ages that focus on different types of learning. I’ve used it for my 4 year old, and it approaches learning from a lot of different angles. It has a little bit of letter and number recognition but really focuses on basic problem solving. Available for Apple and Android. devices
5. Accept That Some Days Will Be Chaotic
Even with the best planning, some days will feel unproductive. Instead of fighting against it, embrace the flexibility of remote work and do what you can. Some days, survival is the only goal—and that’s okay.
6. Get Help If You Can
If possible, consider hiring a babysitter for a few hours, setting up a childcare swap with another parent, or leaning on a partner or family member for support. Even a few dedicated work hours can make a huge difference.
My husband generally works full time in-office, but his work is flexible, so we often coordinate our schedule to help us both get through the work day.
My mom has helped with both of my babies for just a few hours a day (I do pay her for this time). I’m super lucky to have that resource, I know not everyone has access to that. But I will say that even the 3-4 hours of help every day makes a huge difference in what I can accomplish. Sometimes I still pay her to watch the kids even if it’s not a work day, just so I can run errands or have some alone time.
7. Communicate With Your Employer or Clients
Being upfront about your situation can help set realistic expectations. Many companies are now more understanding of the challenges working parents face, and adjusting meetings might be possible with open communication.
I’ve always made sure that I’m seen as a valuable employee that produces good work. Because of that, my managers have always been willing to work with my schedule because I don’t give them a reason to question my work quality or quantity.
8. Give Yourself Grace
You’re doing two full-time jobs at once—parenting and working. Some days will feel productive, and others will feel like a disaster. That’s normal. Celebrate the wins, even if they’re small, and remember that this season won’t last forever.
Finding the balance between work and parenting is an ongoing experiment, and what works one week may not work the next. But by staying flexible, prioritizing what matters, and showing yourself some grace, you can make it through—even if it feels like a chaotic mess some days.
9. Be Present When You’re Off the Clock
The hours you’re not working are just as important as the ones you are. Do your best to be fully present with your family when you’re off the clock. It’s tough because after work, there are always other responsibilities—making dinner, cleaning the house, handling errands—but I try to find time every day to spend quality time with my kids. It doesn’t always happen the way I want, and sometimes it’s only five minutes at a time, but even those small moments can go a long way. Prioritizing family time, even in small doses, helps ensure that work doesn’t completely overrun your life and can make a big difference in maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
