When writing for an online outlet such as Associated Content, it is sometimes difficult for WAHMs to figure out a fair balance between parenting and working. As a mother to 6 wonderful children, 4 of which are at home with me 24 hours a day, I have had to learn how to parent and make money both at the same time. At first it was hectic trying to find a way to make it all work. Some say you have to choose between an income and raising children. I know firsthand it’s possible to choose both without neglecting either.

Since writing for AC can mostly be done at any time of the day, this is one of the easiest ways to get the best of both worlds. The first thing I would suggest, and what helps me most is to leave the computer on all day. Take care of the children’s needs first, of course, and then at each free moment when you are not needed, be on the computer writing, submitting, or promoting articles. When I say take each moment, I literally mean pretty much every moment you aren’t tending to the kids or house. This sounds like a stressful way to work, but I soon realized it actually made things alot easier. The kids don’t have to feel as if I am ignoring them, yet I can still get work done. I actually find I get more work done in a day by doing things this way than I did with a set schedule.

Another thing that helps is to stick to promotion, research, and submission during the day where possible. Actual writing can occur at night and during nap times or other times the children are sleeping or away. If your children are school-aged and are not home schooled, you can write during the times they are at school. I admit that sometimes I write while the children are awake, but I get much more done when I can sit down to write without interruptions. If you do write while the children are around, be prepared for interruptions. Consider this beforehand to avoid stressing when it does occur.