Let’s be honest…
Working from home with children isn’t always the peaceful, laptop-on-the-kitchen-table dream social media sometimes makes it look like.
Some days you’re answering emails while someone asks for another snack.
Other days you’re trying to finish a meeting while your toddler proudly shows everyone their latest masterpiece.
It’s challenging.
But over time, I’ve realised something important.
Children don’t need constant entertainment.
They simply need interesting things to do, realistic expectations and a little preparation.
Here are some of my favourite ways to keep children happily occupied while still getting some work done.
1. Create a “Busy Box”
One of the simplest ideas is keeping a special box that only appears during your work time.
Fill it with activities like:
- Colouring books
- Stickers
- Puzzle books
- LEGO
- Fidget toys
- Small craft kits
- Activity pads
Because they don’t have access to it all the time, it stays exciting for much longer.
2. Set Up Simple Craft Activities
Crafts are brilliant because they encourage creativity while keeping little hands busy.
Some easy ideas include:
- Colouring
- Painting
- Paper chains
- Collages
- Nature crafts
- Making birthday cards
- Cutting and sticking
Keep a craft box ready so you’re not searching for supplies every morning.
3. Create Independent Play Stations
Instead of relying on one activity all day, set up different areas around your home.
For example:
📚 Reading corner
🧩 Puzzle station
🎨 Craft table
🧱 LEGO area
🎭 Dress-up basket
Rotating between activities keeps children interested for much longer.
4. Make Reading Feel Special
Books are one of the easiest ways to encourage quiet independent time.
Try creating a cosy reading corner with:
- Cushions
- Blankets
- Fairy lights
- Favourite books
Older children may also enjoy audiobooks, allowing them to follow stories independently.
5. Use Educational Screen Time Without the Guilt
Sometimes screen time really is the right tool.
Educational programmes, audiobooks and learning apps can provide valuable breathing space during important meetings or deadlines.
Like everything, balance is key.
Using technology intentionally is very different from relying on it all day.
6. Sensory Play for Younger Children
If you have toddlers or preschoolers, sensory play can be a lifesaver.
Try:
- Kinetic sand
- Water play
- Rice bins
- Pasta play
- Playdough
- Pom-pom sorting
These activities often hold attention far longer than traditional toys.
7. Encourage Building Challenges
Children love solving problems.
Ask them to:
- Build the tallest tower.
- Design a zoo.
- Create a castle.
- Make a bridge.
- Build their dream bedroom using LEGO.
Giving a challenge rather than simply handing over toys often keeps them engaged for much longer.
8. Let Them “Work” Beside You
Young children often copy what they see.
Instead of asking them to leave you alone, invite them to work beside you.
A small table with:
- Paper
- Pens
- A toy laptop
- Stickers
- A notebook
can make them feel like part of your working day.
9. Get Outside Before You Start Work
One thing I’ve found really helpful is letting children burn off energy before expecting quiet play.
Even twenty minutes outside can make a huge difference.
Try:
- A walk
- The garden
- Ball games
- Scooters
- Chalk drawing
- A quick trip to the park
Fresh air often leads to calmer afternoons.
10. Rotate Toys Instead of Leaving Everything Out
Children often become bored simply because they see the same toys every day.
Try putting half their toys away.
Swap them every week or two.
Suddenly, old toys feel brand new again.
11. Set Realistic Expectations
This might be the most important tip of all.
Young children aren’t designed to entertain themselves quietly for hours.
Some interruptions are inevitable.
Some days will be wonderfully productive.
Others won’t.
That’s not failure.
That’s simply life with children.
The goal isn’t perfection.
It’s finding a rhythm that works for your family.
Final Thoughts
Working from home with children isn’t always easy.
There will be noisy days.
Interrupted meetings.
Last-minute snacks.
Unexpected cuddles.
And honestly…
That’s okay.
Finding a handful of activities your children genuinely enjoy can make a huge difference to your working day.
Most importantly, be kind to yourself.
You’re balancing two incredibly important jobs at the same time.
That deserves far more credit than most people realise.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I keep my children entertained while I work from home?
Creating activity boxes, independent play stations, craft areas and reading corners can help children stay engaged while you work. Rotating activities also keeps things interesting.
What activities keep children occupied the longest?
LEGO, puzzles, sensory play, colouring, audiobooks and building challenges often provide longer periods of independent play than activities with a fixed end point.
Is screen time okay while working from home?
Used intentionally, educational screen time can be a helpful tool during meetings or focused work sessions. The key is balance rather than perfection.
How do I stop my child interrupting while I’m working?
Clear routines, visual cues, regular breaks together and age-appropriate expectations can all help reduce interruptions.
What if none of these ideas work?
That’s okay. Every child is different. Experiment with different activities and remember that some days will simply be harder than others. Working from home with children is challenging, and flexibility is just as important as planning.
Working Around Family Life Is Possible
Working from home doesn’t mean choosing between being productive and being present.
With a little planning, realistic expectations and activities your children genuinely enjoy, you can create a routine that works for everyone.
And if you’re looking for flexible ways to build an income around family life, my eBook 5 Ways to Make Passive Income for Female Entrepreneurs shares practical ideas designed for real mums living real lives.
