How to Entertain Your Kids While You Work On eBay

Sparkplugging is starting a new tradition called ‘Spark an Idea Thursday’.  Each week we’ll be sharing some great ideas for a topic of interest to our readers.  We invite you to grab our image and carry the tradition through to your own blog!  If you do, please link back to this post so we know where you were inspired!

The theme of this week’s Spark an Idea Thursday is Spark an Idea to Entertain the Kids While You Work.

This is probably going to be one of the toughest challenges for many new moms starting out on eBay.  Every child is different.  There are going to be different work schedules for each of us.

My oldest is now six.  Raising her while working from home is something I’ll never regret and something I’m going to treasure forever.

While I was learning my daughter’s schedule, I adapted into when I could work and not work.  As an infant, her naps in between feedings were my time for eBay frenzy.  Try these tips and let me know what you think!

First thing is first…

Make a To Do List:

It’s a MUST HAVE as a new mom.  I don’t know what happens to our brain cells when a baby is born, but suddenly forgetfulness is at the top of the list.  Let’s face it; lack of sleep has a lot to do with it.  Making a list will guarantee you have something to accomplish each day.

Patience Is A Virtue:

Remember, your main goal for being at home, is to be at home for your children.  If you are in the middle of a photo session and the baby needs to be fed…feed the baby!  Happy Baby = Happy MommyJ.  It’s one of the beauties of working from home.  You can do it at your own pace. You are your own boss!

As my daughter grew older, learning independent play was a blessing in disguise.  She would be right next to me in my office with her toys.  Although I wasn’t constantly interacting with her every second, I could be there if she needed me.  She was always content and happy with plenty to stimulate her mind.

The Toddler Years:

Ah, yes. The toddler years seem to come fast, don’t they?!  It may actually work to your advantage!  Now, they are able to follow direction and want to be mommies helper at all times!  Hey, let them help!

Share the photographing:

We have a spare camera that is here to ‘help mommy’ take pictures.  It’s been a real help when I have to get some things to auction on eBay and the little one is determined to help.

Stickers and Balloons:

I don’t know what it is about the two that just fascinate kids!  You know those small helium tanks you can get at the party store?  They come included with a bag of balloons and stickers that contain funny faces.  It’s amazing how long a toddler will stay occupied when you blow up a few balloons and let them go crazy with a sheet of stickers!  The helium tank lasts a long time, definitely something to use again and again!

Be Flexible:

I have to mention that we recently welcomed a new baby girl into the world!  I’m using all my ‘tricks’ from when my oldest was born to occupy her during the day while I eBay.

Of course, I’m finding out she is totally different than my oldest!  She requires a lot more attention during the day.  That’s fine with me, because I know I can shift my schedule around as needed.  Instead of being an early bird, I’m becoming a night owl.

I’m sure there will be new tricks to be shared with her as she grows, that I will pass along to you!