One of the most consistent compliments I get is my high capacity—multitasking juggler of many kids, jobs, roles and responsibilities. You would think that would be an asset in this season of major multitasking juggling from home. It has definitely helped, but it has also left my brain on the verge of explosion with all that there is to manage from, in and at-home. Here are a few things I have to recalibrate and remind myself of to start each day in “the juggle” of work, school, play and family life at-home:
- Chaos is OK – if you are a self-confessed control freak, like myself, this already makes you cringe. I have had to learn and constantly remind myself that chaos is ok and even necessary. Today, our recess consisted of two kids screaming and chasing each other in circles around the house while one wanted to play a board game and the other curled up to read. The structured, scheduled side of me wanted to die. But isn’t this chaos, after all, the definition of recess at school? It is free time for kids to be kids. Now to just embrace the chaos of recess in the confines of your four walls.
- Focused Time – do your best to mix it up with which child gets your focused, undivided attention. You likely have a child who requires a little more help than the other(s). That is ok to give him/her a little extra. But do not give him/her so much that it is at the expense of your more independent, self-initiating child(ren).
- Take a Break – it is ok to walk away from the table/at-home classroom for yourself. And not just to go to the bathroom. Once your kids are “set-up” with their task, go make yourself a coffee or grab a snack. Take a few minutes to yourself to breathe, rest in His promises
- Laugh – do not let a day go by without some laughter. Do not take yourself so seriously. Laugh at yourself, whether you are a veteran certified teacher or feel certifiable in your feeble attempts at teaching. We are in an unprecedented time in history and this too shall pass. Laugh with your kids. Channel your inner child to goof around with them, tell a joke and just enjoy the craziness of this season.
Mom and dad, kudos to you for all that you are trying to juggle be it with one or multiple children, full/part-time/no work, defining your new day-to-day and so much more. Continue to hone your skills as you juggle each and every day.
