How to Create a Kid-Friendly Workspace: Ideas for Your Home Office or Coworking Space

Let’s be honest—working from home (or a coworking space) with kids is no small feat! Between virtual meetings, emails, and deadlines, having your little ones nearby can feel like trying to write a report in the middle of a carnival. But it is possible to create a workspace that’s both productive for you and fun (and safe) for your kids. Here are some practical tips to make it happen!

1. Designate a “Kid Zone” Near Your Workspace

Creating a dedicated area where your child can play while you work is key. Whether it’s a corner of your home office or a space in a coworking area, make it kid-friendly by adding:

• A cozy rug for them to play on comfortably.

• A small table or desk with age-appropriate activities (coloring books, puzzles, etc.).

• A soft play mat for babies or toddlers.

• Bins of toys or books that can easily be swapped out to keep things interesting.

The goal is to keep them close enough so you can keep an eye on them, but separate enough to give you some focus time.

2. Choose Smart, Safe Furniture

When setting up your workspace, think safety first. Opt for furniture that’s durable, rounded at the edges, and unlikely to tip over if bumped by curious little hands.

• Sturdy desks and chairs that can handle some jostling.

• Wall-mounted shelves to keep your files and equipment safe from tiny fingers.

• Cable organizers to prevent trip hazards and keep cords tucked away.

• Consider adding soft bumpers to sharp edges on tables, shelves, or desks.

3. Keep Supplies Within Arm’s Reach

Whether you’re working from home or in a coworking space, having your child’s essentials nearby can save the day. Consider keeping a basket of “emergency supplies” next to your desk that includes:

• Diapers, wipes, snacks, and a water bottle for toddlers.

• Coloring supplies, small toys, or books for older kids.

• A set of headphones for you—sometimes the sound of cartoons in the background is just too much!

4. Rotate Toys and Activities

Kids get bored quickly, so keeping a rotating selection of toys and activities can keep them entertained longer.

• For home setups, you can create “activity bins” that are swapped out each week, containing different toys, books, or crafts.

• In coworking spaces, have a box of go-to distractions like blocks, crayons, or board books.

This keeps the space fresh and exciting, helping your child stay engaged while you tackle work.

5. Use Kid-Safe Tech Tools

While screentime limits are important, there’s nothing wrong with a little tech to help you focus when you need it. Opt for:

• Educational apps that teach letters, numbers, or colors while keeping kids occupied.

• Interactive shows or games that offer a learning element, such as nature documentaries or language-learning programs.

• Kid-friendly headphones to allow them to watch or play quietly while you concentrate.

6. Add Personal Touches to Your Space

Kids love seeing familiar things around them. Include personal touches like:

• Family photos on your desk to create a warm, comforting environment.

• Artwork by your child displayed near your workspace—it’s not only cute but also gives them a sense of pride and belonging in your work area.

• Small soft toys or blankets that can make the space cozier for both of you.

7. Take Advantage of Naptime or Quiet Time

If you have babies or toddlers, naptime can be your most productive time of day. Set aside your most challenging or focus-heavy tasks for these windows, and keep your space ready to hit the ground running during these quiet moments.

8. Create a Realistic Routine

Routines work wonders for both you and your child. Whether you’re at home or using a coworking space, establish a predictable flow to the day:

• Start with a morning routine that includes breakfast and some playtime before you dive into work.

• Schedule work sprints in 30- to 45-minute chunks, followed by short breaks to check in with your child.

• Make time for a fun, end-of-day routine to signal that work is over and it’s family time—this can be as simple as a dance break or storytime.

9. Use Visual Cues for Boundaries

For older kids, visual cues can help set boundaries without constant reminders. Try:

• A simple “stoplight” sign on your desk, where red means “quiet time” and green means “you can approach.”

• A colored placemat or mat near your desk—when it’s out, it means “Mom’s working,” and when it’s away, it means they can play close by.

Creating a kid-friendly workspace is all about making the environment functional for you and engaging for your child. By keeping it safe, flexible, and filled with a mix of activities, you can build a space that helps you stay productive while also keeping your little ones happy and entertained.

What’s your favorite way to make your workspace more kid-friendly? Share your tips below—I’d love to hear what’s working for you!