Summer Survival Guide: Juggling Kids and Work from Home

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Summer is upon us, and with it comes the joy (and sometimes chaos) of having the kids home full-time. For many of us, it's also PCS (Permanent Change of Station) season, bringing a whirlwind of packing, moving, and adjusting to new places. Balancing work, side hustles, and family during this time can be challenging, but fear not—I've got some tips to help you thrive this summer!

Navigating Work and Side Hustles with Kids at Home

1. Set a Schedule: Structure is your best friend. Create a daily schedule that includes dedicated work time, playtime for the kids, and breaks. Make sure to include some flexible hours to accommodate the unexpected.

2. Involve the Kids: Depending on their age, involve your kids in your side hustle. They can help with simple tasks or just be a part of your work environment, giving them a sense of inclusion and teaching them about work ethic.

3. Create a Dedicated Workspace: Carve out a specific area in your home where you can focus on work. This signals to your brain and your family that it's work time, helping to minimize distractions.

4. Use Technology Wisely: Leverage apps and tools to stay organized and communicate efficiently. Tools like Trello for task management, Clockify for tracking hours, and Zoom for virtual meetings can make a world of difference.

5. Prioritize Self-Care: Amidst the hustle, don't forget to take care of yourself. Schedule some 'me time,' whether it's a quiet morning coffee, a quick workout, or reading a book.

Managing a PCS During Summer

1. Plan Ahead: Start planning your move as early as possible. Create a checklist of tasks and deadlines to keep everything on track.

2. Declutter: Use this opportunity to declutter your home. Sell, donate, or discard items you no longer need. This makes packing easier and helps you start fresh in your new home.

3. Hire Help: If your budget allows, consider hiring professional movers or at least getting help with packing and unpacking. This can reduce stress significantly.

4. Stay Positive: Moving can be tough on the entire family. Keep a positive attitude and view the move as an adventure. Explore your new area together and make it a fun experience.

Balancing Work, Family, and PCS

1. Flexible Work Hours: Communicate with your employer about your situation. Many companies, especially those supportive of military families, are willing to offer flexible hours or remote work options during a PCS.

2. Delegate Tasks: Don’t hesitate to delegate tasks at work and home. Enlist the help of older kids for packing or have your partner take on some responsibilities to lighten your load.

3. Stay Connected: Keep in touch with your network. Whether it’s colleagues, friends, or family, staying connected can provide support and ease the transition.

Summer Activities for Kids

Keeping kids engaged during the summer can be a breeze with these fun DIY projects:

1. Painted Rocks: Transform ordinary rocks into colorful works of art with some paint and creativity. This simple craft is great for kids of all ages​ (One Little Project)​.

2. Popsicle Stick Sculptures: Encourage fine motor skills and imaginative play by building whimsical sculptures with popsicle sticks​ (SplashLearn)​.

3. DIY Terrariums: Teach kids about ecosystems by creating mini gardens in jars​ (SplashLearn)​.

4. Glow in the Dark Play Dough: A fun twist on traditional play dough, this version glows in the dark and is easy to make​ (Mod Podge Rocks)​.

5. Water Bottle Wind Spirals: Recycle old water bottles into beautiful wind spirals for the yard​ (One Little Project)​.

6. Rainbow Salt Paintings: Use salt and watercolors to create vibrant and textured artwork​ (One Little Project)​.

   Remember, balancing work, side hustles, family, and a PCS move is no small feat, but with some planning and flexibility, you can make this summer a productive and enjoyable one. Embrace the chaos, cherish the moments with your family, and take pride in your resilience and adaptability.

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