Working from home can seem like the perfect solution for parents - if you are considering this please read my pros and cons before you make up your mind:
Pros
>Work can be more flexible and fit in with your family lifestyle
>If you can work around your kids routines and your partner helps out you may not need childcare
>You will save money on childcare and travel costs - also on office rental if you are self-employed
>You may find it easier to concentrate as there are no work colleagues to distract you
Cons
>If your kids are not yet at school it may prove difficult to do your work around their routines. They do not always stick to their routines and certainly do not understand that they can’t interrupt you while you are working
>There is of course children’s school holidays to consider also
>Visitors coming along your home and phone calls can also be an unwanted distractions
>You may find it more difficult to switch off from work and relax as it is in your own home
Working from home can be very successful for many parents. It all really depends how many hours you are expecting to be able to work each day and how you organise your time. You must be honest with yourself at the start and not expect yourself to perform miracles. You cannot do a full day’s work at home while directly supervising young children. You may be able to fit in a few hours and maybe some again at night when they are sleeping. Partners and parents may be able to help out with childcare to allow you to work. If your children are at the school this obviously makes working from home a more viable option. You must organise your time well and be very disciplined as it is easy to get distracted with other things while in your own home.
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