Trying to write with kids in the house is difficult.
They demand so much of your time, energy and concentration that getting
anything productive done seems like a huge hurdle. However there are ways to
write even with kids running amok. Here are a few ways to write with kids:
1. Let
Them Help – Children always want to help their parents work, even when that
work seems dull to us. Give your children a chance to learn and experience a
little of what you are doing by providing them with a task. They can create
their own story book with just a few sheets of paper bound together with yarn.
Have them write and illustrate their story. By the time they are finished you
will have gotten some writing of your own done.
2. Set
Aside Time –The best way to get anything accomplished is to set aside a
specific time for it. With writing it is best to find out when you are at your
most productive and set aside that time every day just to write. No matter what
else is going on, get into the habit of writing then. Once your children
realize you have a strict schedule, they will be less likely to bother you
during writing time. If you can, try to provide them with a productive task of
their own like reading time or just quiet play.
3. Make
Your Space – Another important factor in productive writing is having your own
space. Create an office area that is out of the way. Plopping down in the
middle of the kitchen is usually not the best idea for a work space. Instead,
find a quiet nook that you can keep neat and organized. Only you should touch
the stuff there and it should be declared a ‘no kid zone’. The better organized
and separate you are, the less likely you are to get distracted and frazzled.
4. Plan
Ahead –Even in the times you are not writing you can plan what you are going to
write. Keep a small notepad with you so you can jot down ideas and plot points.
If you can, try to write down everything before you ever sit down to write.
This only takes a few minutes at a time, so you do not have to really
concentrate on it for long periods, but it will help get you started quickly
when you do have time to really write. It is much better than staring at a
blank page and wondering what in the world you are going to write about.
These are just a few of the ways to make your
writing life more productive when you have kids to think about. Keep your
writing a priority in your life and do not make excuses. There is always time
to write if you make the time. Set strong boundaries and let your children know
that this is important to you. It is something that they will appreciate as
they have to start setting their own priorities in life!
Author
Bio
Sara is an active nanny as well as an active
freelance writer. She is a frequent contributor of http://www.nannypro.com/.