Tips for Work At Home Meetings
Until recently, I was thrilled that I never had to take a phone call from a client or have meetings. I received my assignments via email, completed them and sent them back the same way. On occasion, I talked with clients via Skype, but only chatting, which meant I could be handling a temper tantrum and making lunch while still responding rapidly to their questions. Not so anymore.
These days, I’m working with clients who need contact, plus my freelance course includes actually speaking time with me. These usually mean online meetings that require, gasp, audio! While they understand that I’m a mom and have two little ones, that doesn’t mean I don’t need to keep the boys calm while I’m working.
Fortunately, my husband is home most days to look after the boys, but there are times when he has to take off for a bit and I’m on my own, trying to juggle talking with my clients and keeping a 2 and 3 year old relatively quiet. Here are a few things I’ve learned.
Keep toys in reserve. There should be a couple of toys that you ONLY let them play with while Mom’s on the phone. And in another part of the house, preferably. Works wonders and they will happily anticipate the next time you’re busy.
Build a quiet box. While this is similar to the last one, instead of toys, you have things to do. My go to is plasticine, which requires the kids to sit at the kitchen table and mold. It’s usually good for 10-15 min. of peace. Other quiet activities could include coloring books or activity books, beads to sort, an etch-a-sketch, etc.
Water play. Set yourself up so you can watch the kids, then turn on the sink and let them wash dishes. Sure, there’s a mess to clean up after, but for now you’ll get the peace that you need to talk. For a bit . . . I’ve found that after approx. 10-15 min. they start hurling soap bubbles at each other which rapidly escalates to water throwing . . . but your kids could be different.
Get some help. I have a maid and on occasion, I’ve asked her to take the kids outside so I can get something done that requires not having shrieking little ones in the background. While I prefer not to use this option too often, if you can get someone, even the neighbor, to watch the kids for a few minutes, you’re golden.
Put on a movie. Even (or actually, especially) if you don’t usually watch TV in your house, a movie can be a great way to distract kids and keep them occupied. Hand them snacks and drinks and you’ll be good for a longer session, like a teleconference, etc.
What are your tricks for work at home meetings?
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I think trying to arrange meetins at nap time is always good. I have read that a few mommies talk to their children and promise them special one-on-one time if the child stays in the living room quiet for one hour. Giving them a timer to watch, so they can see the light at the end of the tunnel. Once the timer goes off, however, follow-through is imperative. You have to stop your meeting and ask your child what he/she would like to play, and play it with them for an hour. The reward really makes them want you to go to a meeting so they can get that special time again!
That’s a great tip! Thanks.