How Telecommuting Parents Can Plan for Snow Days
During this time of year the Earth begins to freeze and children’s minds typically turn to the fairly elusive snow day. Unfortunately for parents, snow days mean scrambling to find alternate childcare in a very short amount of time. In the best case scenario in-laws live nearby and can watch your children; otherwise it will be important to create an alternative solution ahead of time.
If there aren’t neighbors, in-laws, or stay-at-home moms nearby to watch your children, you may have to consider working while your children are at home. For older children this most likely won’t be a problem because will be able to understand the work-at-home boundaries your family has set (if you haven’t set boundaries for when you’re working at home, now is a good time to do so).
The first option for parents of younger children is calling in sick – or taking a half-day – and letting your employer know you’ll be otherwise occupied. If you don’t work for one specific employer, this won’t be an option. This is where it’s critical to plan ahead. Consider – and ask in advance – other parents who may be able to watch your children while you’re working; or whether your child can entertain him/herself for an extended period of time.
Pre-plan activities and special treats (like a new movie or toy) for your child to keep them occupied and remember that you’ll need to take frequent breaks in order to keep an eye on them. This may make your workday last a while longer so try to make compromises. Judge which projects must be completed by the end of the day and which can wait until the next business day. Keep in mind; you may have to put in few extra hours to complete everything.
A snow day doesn’t have to be loads of work for the parent – if you haven’t taken a vacation in a while, give yourself one and go play in the snow with your children. Although, it is important to first think in the mindset of a commuter: if you worked in an office, would you be able to take this time off? Staying in the mindset of a commuter will help to delegate time wisely without becoming unnecessarily attached to your work.
Image by di_the_huntress
Posted by Melissa W.
on Dec 3 2010. Filed under Work & Family.
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