To begin,  your children need to know what you are doing when you are in front of your computer or on the phone and they also need to know why you are doing this instead of paying attention to them. Tell them the truth that you are working to make money to pay the bills and buy things that they want like candy or treats.

Secondly you need to learn how to compartmentalize your life – I know easier said than done. Close your business down for a few hours a day and make this your children’s time. Special times when they come in from school (or in the afternoon if they are not yet that old). Some time to get them relaxed and ready for bed. Make sure that the children know about these times and that you keep to them. I got quite adept at working for a few hours after my daughter went to bed. Or in the morning before they get up if you are more of a lark.

Lastly, impress upon your children that when you are on the phone or talking to people at your house/office that they have to be quiet. Not only is this good business but it is good manners from them.

Within your home make sure that your children have some stimulating toys and activities to keep them interested and busy whilst you are busy. Start them on a hobby – probably best not to be a musical one if you have a lot of phone calls. I undertook a lot of my studying and work, with my daughter working alongside me, writing, drawing and reading – in what she called “her work”.

If your children are a little older, make sure you have an office with a door that can cut out the noise. If your children are younger or you don’t have the luxury of space, designate a work area and ensure that your children know that your reports are not for writing on. If they are old enough give them their own workspace close by.

In summary for your youngsters – make sure they feel wanted by you, understand why you are doing what you are doing, have access to stimulating activities and are well mannered. Make time for them every day, whatever you are doing.

On the client side, this is a little easier, as I am assuming that they rarely come to your home. (If they do then put part of your house aside for client conversations and do not let the children in there.)

Make sure that you have good voicemail facilities. If you are spending time with your children, switch them on. Get back to your clients as soon as you are free again. If you respond quickly to your messages, your clients will merely think that you are busy – not a bad thing.

If you visit your clients then you are going to need child minding facilities so try and undertake all your visits on the same day. Exhausting but cheaper.

Marketing and report writing, designing etc can all be done during your “non children” time in your office.

I gained my degree and set up my business as a single mother of my young daughter. It is hard work – it’s tiring but so rewarding, so good luck.

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