With more moms working from home doing freelance jobs, their families need to learn new ways to interact that respect mom’s work time. More time with your children is obviously a huge benefit to working from home. However, if not managed properly from the beginning, working from home can quickly become a nightmare instead of a blessing. If work time is constantly interrupted and supplies go missing, work suffers and so does the family.

When deciding to accept a freelance, work at home job, the entire family should sit down and have a serious discussion about behavioral expectations. Parents should explain to the kids that when mommy is at her computer or in her work space, she is working and should only be interrupted in emergencies. During the time mom is working, the children should be expected to keep noise and distractions to a minimum. Some parents choose to give the kids a list of acceptable activities for the time while mom is working. Hanging the list on the refrigerator will save lots of time later. Instead of having to entertain every question about what they can do, mom will simply be able to point to the list. Once the kids know that mom can finish her work faster with no interruptions, they will quickly realize that this means more time for fun later. It also sets a good example for the kids that work must be completed before playing starts.

Work supplies are not toys. Parents should explain to family members that it is essential to keep work supplies in a designated area. If Mom needs to spend valuable time looking for her supplies every time she works, then work time will take longer and become more of a chore. All family members should be given the expectation that if anyone uses mom’s work supplies, they need to be returned immediately.

Get the family organized! Yes, mom is doing freelance jobs from home, but she still has a job. The family needs to work together to make sure that the household runs smoothly. A family calendar will help mom to be able to better plan her work schedule around her family responsibilities and commitments. Creating a chore chart will go a long way towards ensuring that everyone is clear about which jobs they are expected to perform. If everyone pulls their weight, then all work will be carried out in an efficient fashion. Working efficiently frees up more time more time to pursue family interests.

Our freelance professionals have implemented these strategies in their own families to make their work at home jobs and households run smoothly. We hope they give you the extra edge in making your transition from office work to work at home freelancing.