Working From Home With Kids: Real-Life Tips for Remote Work Survival
Working from home with kids is hard. You’re juggling parenting and productivity like a champ—even when it feels like a circus act. Give yourself credit, lower the bar when you need to, and remember: if everyone’s alive and the WiFi still works, you’re doing amazing.
Working remotely with children at home can feel like a full-contact sport. Whether you're balancing Zoom meetings, snack requests, or the occasional toddler meltdown, it's a challenge millions of parents are navigating every day.
Here’s how to make working from home with kids not just manageable, but actually workable.
1. Set Clear Boundaries for Work and Family Time
Establishing boundaries is essential when working from home with children. Create visual signals (like a closed door or headphones) that indicate “do not disturb” time. Be consistent and repeat expectations daily—kids forget faster than Chrome eats up RAM.
2. Create a Mini Workspace for Your Kids
One of the best ways to encourage independent play during work hours is to give your kids their own “office.” Use an old keyboard, some coloring pages, and kid-safe headphones to mimic your setup. It gives them a sense of control—and keeps your real laptop safe from sticky fingers.
3. Accept—and Normalize—Background Noise
Remote work with children isn't going to be quiet, and that’s okay. Most teams now understand that parenting while working from home is real life. If your toddler joins your video call or your dog barks mid-presentation, roll with it. It’s relatable, not unprofessional.
4. Use Time Blocks and Work in Sprints
The key to working from home with young kids is flexibility. Instead of aiming for long, uninterrupted hours, break your workday into sprints. Use nap time, screen time, or early mornings for deep focus, and lighter tasks for more chaotic moments.
5. Don’t Underestimate the Power of Bribery
A little positive reinforcement (read: snacks or screen time) can go a long way. Keep a stash of easy wins for when you need 15 minutes of uninterrupted focus. It’s not bribery—it’s strategic motivation. We’re the CEO of our house and kids!
6. Invest in Remote Work Essentials
Whether you're managing meetings or emails, having the right tools makes all the difference. A few must-haves for remote work parents:
Noise-canceling headphones to block out background chaos
A sturdy wagon or an easy-to-push stroller for midday walks (everyone needs to get out their yayas)
A stand for your eyeglasses (stop and start constantly means setting my glasses down and losing them)
An educational bribery device for when you really just need to get stuff done
(Affiliate links may be included. See full list here: LinkTree)
Final Thoughts on Working Remotely with Kids
Working from home with kids isn’t easy—but it is doable. You’re teaching your children flexibility, resilience, and the importance of balancing work and family life. And that’s something to be proud of, even if your desk is covered in Goldfish crumbs.
Need help choosing gear that makes life easier? I’ve tested the best baby gear for remote-working parents. Shop my top picks for strollers, toddler beds, and travel cribs right here.
working from home with kids
remote work with children
working remotely with kids tips
how to work from home with young kids
remote work parenting tips
