There are some work-at-home careers that are easier to include your children with than others. I'm lucky because, as a writer, I can easily involve my children by:

• Giving them their own writing projects to work on
• Encouraging them to work on some art
• Listening to them reading
• Suggesting puzzles, coloring, or other table top activities for them to work on

When children see their parents at home, it's only natural for them to want to be close by and involved. Because I chose to pursue a writing career from home, I can keep my children right next to me as I work. There are times when it's difficult to concentrate, and that's when I encourage independent playtime.

If you're working a home job that is a bit more complex, like one that involves heavy use of the phone, involve them by giving them important papers to work on, print-outs from the computer, or desk organizing. There a lot of creative solutions to keeping the children close-by and involved, while keeping quiet.

Don't forget that, just because you're children are involved, that doesn't mean they have to be "into" your work supplies and tools. Consider purchasing them a set of their own supplies to keep next to you, on a small table near your desk, or on another small desk. If you work from the living room or another common area of your home, consider using a portable snack tray nearby containing their supplies.

Despite the many frustrations many work at home mothers face when involving their children during their work day, one fact still remains . . . your children are why you're working at home in the first place. Being a work at home mother means you will be wearing many hats, and juggling a lot of tasks . . . all while your children sit waiting to be involved in your day to day routine.