How I Keep My Little One Busy While I’m Working (When School Is Out & Life Is Chaotic)
School closures always sound cozy in theory… until you’re still working, emails are flying, meetings are happening, and your very curious little one is home with lots of energy.
Between weather closures, sick days, and schedule curveballs, so many moms are finding themselves in survival mode right now. If that’s you — you’re not alone.
Thankfully, our school doesn’t do digital learning days (honestly, thank goodness). But this girly? She loves learning. She loves school, worksheets, routines, and feeling like she’s doing “big kid” things — so leaning into that has been a huge help during these unexpected at-home days.
This isn’t a Pinterest-perfect system or a homeschool setup. It’s just what’s actually working for us right now.
Leaning Into Her Love of Learning (Without Pressure)
Since there’s no required schoolwork, learning time in our house is an option, not an obligation. The goal isn’t to recreate school — it’s to give her something engaging she genuinely enjoys while I get work done.
Last minute (and honestly out of necessity), I snagged a few learning workbooks from Amazon, and they’ve been a big win.
✨ Disney + learning is always a yes in our house.
Familiar characters instantly hold her attention and make learning feel fun instead of forced.
We’re also huge Highlights fans. Their workbooks are engaging, age-appropriate, and perfect for independent work — which is key when I’m on calls or deep in emails.
Checkout our current favorite books here: https://liketk.it/5OFSq
Independent Activities She Can Do Near Me
Keeping Lennon close — but busy — makes a huge difference.
Some of our go-to independent activities:
Workbooks or activity books at the table near my desk
Coloring, stickers, or drawing
Reading (or “reading” 😉) favorite books
Playing quietly with Barbies, Bluey, or American Girl
She’s usually really good at entertaining herself, especially when she feels included rather than sent away to “go play.”
Low-Prep “Busy Baskets”
I keep busy baskets simple:
A small bin with a few activity options
Nothing fancy
Items she hasn’t seen in a few days
Rotating what’s inside — or just moving it to a different room — keeps things fresh without buying new stuff.
Screen Time (With Zero Guilt)
We really limit screen time in our house, but sometimes you’ve gotta cut loose for your sanity and productivity.
That said, screen time is:
Timed
Controlled
Intentional
A show or tablet during a meeting or deadline doesn’t mean you’re failing — it means you’re being realistic. Screens are a tool, and tools can be used wisely.
No guilt. No explaining. Just doing what you need to do.
When She Comes to the Office With Me
Some days, working from home isn’t an option and she’s right by my side at the office.
For those days, I pack:
A workbook or two
Crayons and paper
A comfort item
Snacks (always snacks)
She loves feeling like she’s “going to work,” and having familiar activities helps the day go smoother for both of us.
Snacks That Buy You 20 Minutes of Peace 😉
(Wellness-Focused & Mom-Approved)
Snacks are currency in our house. As we’ve been more intentional about wellness, I’ve focused on stocking options that help keep her full and make me feel good about what she’s eating.
We aim for snacks that are:
Dye-free
Non-GMO
No artificial preservatives
Nothing extreme or perfect — just better choices that work for real life.
We rely heavily on Thrive Market, Target, and Costco, especially during busy weeks.
Some of our tried-and-true favorites:
Good & Gather Fruit & Veggie Strips
Brainiac fruit snacks & pouches
Z Bars
Pips Cinnamon Twists
Solely fruit jerky
Pirate’s Booty
LesserEvil popcorn
Late July nacho cheese tortilla chips
I love putting together little snack trays or “pick plates.” They make snack time last longer, feel more fun, and often buy me just enough time to finish a meeting — and honestly, that’s a win.
Check out our snack drawer must haves here: https://liketk.it/5nrDp
A Little Grace Goes a Long Way
If you’re reading this thinking, “My kid would never sit still for that,” please know — every kid is different, and every season is different.
This isn’t about doing it right.
It’s about doing what works for your child and for you.
Some days are structured. Some days are survival mode. Both count.
Final Thoughts
Unexpected school closures can feel overwhelming when you’re still expected to show up for work. Having a few familiar, engaging activities and better-for-you snacks on hand has helped our days feel calmer and more manageable — without turning them into full-blown homeschool days.
If you’re in survival mode this week, I see you 🤍 You’re doing a great job — even on the messy days.
xo,
Katie