A Simple Work-from-Home Mom Schedule with a Toddler

Working from home as a mom presents a unique set of challenges, especially when you have a lively toddler to care for. Balancing professional responsibilities with the constant demands of parenting requires careful planning and flexibility. In this blog post, we’ll explore effective strategies for crafting a work-from-home mom schedule that accommodates both work tasks and the care of a toddler. We’ll also provide a sample schedule that integrates house chores and work blocks to help you maximize productivity while nurturing your little one.

Strategies for crafting a work-from-home mom schedule with a toddler:

1. Establish a Routine: Toddlers thrive on routine, so creating a consistent daily schedule can help set expectations and reduce chaos. Designate specific times for work blocks, meals, playtime, and naptime, and stick to them as closely as possible.
2. Utilize Naptime Wisely: Naptime is a precious window of uninterrupted time for getting work done. Schedule your most demanding tasks or important meetings during this period to maximize productivity. Use this time to tackle focused work tasks that require concentration.
3. Incorporate House Chores: Balancing house chores with work and childcare can be challenging, but it’s essential for maintaining a sense of order and cleanliness in your home. Integrate small chores throughout your day, such as tidying up during breaks or involving your toddler in simple tasks like putting away toys.
4. Create a Dedicated Workspace: Designate a specific area of your home as your workspace, ideally away from distractions like the TV or play areas. Set boundaries with your toddler to establish when it’s mommy’s work time and when it’s playtime. Having a designated workspace can help signal to your child that you’re in “work mode.”
5. Be Flexible: Flexibility is key when it comes to balancing work and toddler care. Accept that your schedule may need to adapt and change throughout the day based on your child’s needs. Embrace the unpredictability of toddlerhood and find creative ways to work around interruptions.

Sample of a work-from-home mom schedule with a toddler:

7:00 AM: Wake Up

• Get yourself and your toddler ready for the day.

8:00 AM: Breakfast

• Enjoy a nutritious breakfast together.

9:00 AM: Work Block 1

• Dive into your first work block while your toddler engages in independent play or watches educational TV.

10:30 AM: Outdoor Play

• Take a break for some fresh air and outdoor playtime with your toddler.

11:30 AM: House Chores

• Involve your toddler in simple house chores like picking up toys or helping with laundry.

12:30 PM: Lunchtime

• Prepare and enjoy a healthy lunch together.

Read: lunch ideas

1:30 PM: Naptime and work block 2

• Utilize your toddler’s naptime for focused work tasks or to catch up on household chores.

3:30 PM: Snack Time

• Take a break for a snack and some quality one-on-one time with your toddler.

Read: snack ideas

4:00 PM: Work Block 3

• Dive into your third work block while your toddler plays nearby or engages in quiet activities.

5:30 PM: Dinner Prep

• Involve your toddler in meal preparation or set up a safe play area nearby while you cook.

6:30 PM: Dinner

• Enjoy a family dinner together.

7:30 PM: Wind Down

• Begin your toddler’s bedtime routine with activities like bath time and reading books.

8:30 PM: Bedtime

• Tuck your toddler into bed and take some time for yourself to unwind and relax.

Items you might find useful as a work-at-home mom

1. Planner or calendar: To schedule appointments, activities, and tasks, helping you stay organized and manage your time effectively.
2. Notebook and pen: for jotting down thoughts, to-do lists, and important reminders.
3. Relaxation aids: Noise-canceling headphones or earplugs for quiet time. Comfortable clothing: Invest in cozy loungewear or athleisure wear that allows you to move freely and comfortably throughout the day. Weighted blanket or cozy throw for comfort. Guided meditation apps or relaxation podcasts for stress relief. Download apps like Headspace or Calm.
4. Exercise Equipment: Yoga mat: for practicing yoga, meditation, or stretching exercises to promote relaxation and reduce stress. Resistance bands or dumbbells for strength training. Exercise bike or treadmill for cardiovascular fitness.
5. Time-Saving Gadgets: Slow cooker or Instant Pot for quick and easy meals. Cleaning supplies such as Robotic vacuum or cleaning robot for automated housekeeping, brooms, mops, and cleaning products. Also, Smart home devices for controlling lights, temperature, and other functions. Tea maker or coffee maker: For brewing your favorite beverages to enjoy during quiet moments of reflection or relaxation.
6. Essential oils or scented candles Create a calming atmosphere and enhance your self-care routine with aromatherapy.
7. Self-care products: Treat yourself to skincare products, bath bombs, or body lotions for indulgent self-care rituals.
8. Books or e-reader: To escape into the world of literature and unwind during nap times or quiet evenings. Download apps like Amazon Kindle, Google Play books, apple books, Libby by OverDrive, Project Gutenberg, Wattpad and Goodreads.
9. Support network: Surround yourself with friends, family, or fellow moms who can provide encouragement, advice, and companionship.
10. Childcare resources: Whether it’s baby gear, toys, or educational materials, having resources to entertain and stimulate your children can give you much-needed breaks throughout the day.
11. Comforting Foods and Beverages: Herbal tea or hot cocoa for relaxation. Healthy snacks or pre-packaged convenience foods for busy days. Meal prep containers or freezer-friendly recipes for easy meals.
12. Hobby Supplies: Invest in supplies for hobbies or interests that bring joy and fulfillment, whether it’s painting, gardening, candle making, or crafting .
13. Home Office Setup: Desk, chair, standing desk, and wireless keyboard, external monitor, HP OfficeJet Pro 8025e All-in-One Wireless Printer, Task Lighting, computer for illustrating work-from-home or financial planning.

Conclusion: Balancing work and toddler care as a work-from-home mom requires patience, flexibility, and careful planning. By establishing a routine, utilizing naptime wisely, incorporating house chores into your schedule, creating a dedicated workspace, and embracing flexibility, you can create a successful work-from-home mom schedule that allows you to thrive both personally and professionally while nurturing your relationship with your toddler.