How to Keep the Kids Busy While You Write

Those of us who write for a living and have children know how difficult it can be to keep the little ones busy while we write. If you have children, you know exactly what I'm talking about. As soon as you get into the first paragraph of an article or story, little Johnny or Betsy needs something from you. And how on earth can we tell our kids no?

The most effective solution that I've come up with to keeping the kids busy while you write is keep them in the room with you. If your spouse or another adult isn't home, then you are the only one responsible for your children. You'll waste far more time cleaning up a mess in the other room than you will answering the occasional question while they keep themselves busy in your office.

Keep the Kids Busy While You Write: Ask them to write you a story.

Most kids try to emulate their parents, from dressing up in their clothes to coining key phrases they hear their parents use. Since you're a writer, no doubt your kids want to be writers too! While you work on your latest project, set up a craft table near your own desk and ask your kids to write you a story. Give them plenty of construction paper, a few markers or crayons and let their creative genius take over. They'll be so absorbed in their own "work" that you'll have a chance to get things done.

Keep the Kids Busy While You Write: Put them to work.

Kids who are older than four or five can help you in your office while you are writing. Younger kids can clean out your drawers, sort diskettes or fill your printer tray. Medium-aged kids can alphabetize your filing cabinet, sort your books and file stacks of paperwork. Your older children vacuum, dust, take out your trash, organize the closet or even answer correspondence.

Keep the Kids Busy While You Write: Purchase a craft book.

There are plenty of great craft books on the market, and while you're desperately trying to meet your deadline, the kids can work through the book one craft at a time. This works great with kids in the 7-11 age group because they can cut, glue, color and fold on their own. In the morning before you sit down at your desk, gather the necessary supplies and let them have at it.