Coworking with Kids

Oh, and this is for coworking with your kids (not homeschooling) so the goal is for you to help them get started and organized with stuff to do and then you can do your work too!

Basic rules for co-working

• A set start and stop time - start with less time and continue to work your ways to longer stretches
• Having a basic protocol for bathroom breaks - if they still need help going potty, take them before you start.
• Talk about snacks --if they’re available, have them (and a water bottle) easily and independently accessible. If they are not available, tell them when they (or lunch/dinner) is coming.
• Ask if they need any help with anything - ask before the timer starts! 
• Give options: give them a choice between 2 “project” options.
• Go over their project expectations - it’s meant to be done independently, they can use whatever materials provided, and if they get finished early they can do _____. 
• Group project with siblings - go over how to solve a problem amongst themselves. And if they can’t solve it, each person can read /draw/ look at books separately until coworking time is over.
• Interrupting rules - remind them it’s ok to interrupt mom/dad if someone is hurt. If and when you are interrupted (except in the event of injury), remind them of the rules and when the timer is over
• After timer ends - After coworking time is over, everyone gets to share what they worked on and what their favorite/least favorite part was. 

Having clear expectations will help everyone involved, and it gives an easy place to start with “trying again the next day”.

And don’t worry, these ideas are for both readers and non-readers. Enjoy!