Balancing Kids and Zoom Calls: Real Tips That Help

Let me be honest with you for a second—trying to balance Zoom calls and kids in the same house is like juggling flaming torches while riding a unicycle... on a tightrope. It’s not easy. If you’ve ever hit “unmute” on a work call only to have your toddler scream “I pooped!” in the background, just know—you are not alone. Been there. Survived it. And I’m here to help you survive it too.

Whether you’re a full-time remote worker or just hopping on the occasional video meeting, I’ve pulled together real, doable tips that have helped me stay sane (mostly) while working from home with my two kids running around. These aren’t just fluffy ideas—they’re practical, tested, and they work even when the day goes sideways.

So, if you’re looking for ways to get through your next Zoom call without a meltdown (from you or the kids), keep reading.

1. Set Expectations—For You and Them

Before anything else, have a quick check-in with your expectations. You’re not working in a silent office—you’re working in a home filled with little humans who don’t care about your Zoom schedule.

That said, talk to your kids (even if they’re young) about what Zoom time means. In my house, we have something called "Quiet Time Zones". I explain that during those times, Mommy needs quiet because she’s "talking to people on the screen." I even made a fun sign they help me hang on the door. Giving them a role in the process makes them feel important and more likely to cooperate (sometimes).

2. Create a “Zoom Kit” for the Kids

Here’s a secret weapon: the Zoom Kit. It’s a basket I pull out only when I have meetings. It’s filled with:

• Quiet toys (coloring books, puzzles, sticker sheets)

• Snacks (things they can eat without help or mess)

• A tablet with headphones (yes, screen time—it’s okay)

• Fidget toys or sensory play items (especially for younger ones)

By making Zoom time feel like a treat for them too, they’re less likely to interrupt. And let’s be honest—sometimes a lollipop buys you 20 uninterrupted minutes. Worth it.

3. Use Visual Timers and Schedules

If your kids are old enough to understand time, a visual timer is a total game-changer. We use a simple hourglass and a printed “Zoom Schedule” with pictures. It helps them see how long they need to stay quiet or entertain themselves.

It also gives them a sense of control. They know once the red sand runs out, Mom’s done. It creates structure, which kids (even if they don’t admit it) really crave.

4. Embrace Background Noise And Communicate It

There will be noise. The dog will bark. The baby might cry. It’s okay. More companies and coworkers understand that home life isn’t always peaceful. The best thing you can do is set expectations with your team.

Before a call starts, I usually say, “Just a heads-up, I’ve got the little ones here today, so if you hear background chaos, it’s just real life.” This helps take the pressure off you and normalizes the situation. You’d be surprised how many people reply, “Same here!”

5. Use Breakout Spaces (Even Tiny Ones)

If you live in a smaller space, it’s not always possible to have a separate home office. But even carving out a designated Zoom space can help. It could be a corner of the bedroom, a kitchen nook, or even a closet you temporarily transform.

I added a $10 room divider from Facebook Marketplace behind my desk just to create the illusion of a separate space. It helps me feel like I’ve stepped into “work mode,” and it subtly lets my kids know it’s business time.

6. Call in Reinforcements When You Can

If you have a spouse, partner, neighbor, or even an older sibling available, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Schedule your most important meetings during a time when someone else can keep the kids occupied.

And if help isn’t always available, think about rotating “Zoom breaks” with a friend or neighbor who also works from home. One day you help entertain their kids while they take calls, the next day they return the favor. It’s a win-win.

7. Record Calls Instead of Attending Live (If Possible)

This tip saved me during one particularly chaotic week. Ask your team or supervisor if meetings can be recorded. Then, you can catch up when the kids are asleep or occupied. Not every call has to be attended live—especially if you’re just listening in.

Plus, watching the replay lets you pause when needed (like when someone decides the couch is a trampoline).

8. Take Advantage of Nap Time or Screen Time

Yes, I know the “nap window” is sacred. But it’s also prime time for high-focus tasks and important calls. If your kids still nap, try scheduling around those windows. If naps are a thing of the past, use screen time wisely—strategically planned shows or movies can buy you just enough time to get through a meeting without distractions.

Guilt-free.

9. Forgive the Imperfect Days

Let’s be real: some days will be a mess. The toddler will burst in mid-call. Your internet might crash. You might bribe your kid with marshmallows just so you can finish a sentence.

That doesn’t mean you’re doing it wrong. It means you’re doing your best.

Give yourself grace. You’re balancing more than most people see, and the fact that you’re trying means you’re doing amazing.

10. Make Time to Disconnect

This one’s for you. When you’ve spent the day bouncing between boss mode and mom mode, your brain gets tired. Really tired.

Carve out even a tiny bit of time each day just for yourself. After the kids are in bed, step outside, breathe, journal, stretch—whatever fills your cup. You deserve it.

You can’t pour from an empty mug (especially when it’s been reheated three times and still went cold).

Final Thoughts (From Me to You)

Balancing kids and Zoom calls isn’t about perfection—it’s about finding what works for you and giving yourself permission to adjust, adapt, and even laugh at the chaos.

I’ve made all the mistakes, tried all the hacks, and discovered that the secret isn’t in getting it perfect—it’s in being flexible and real. And trust me, your kids will remember the love and laughter way more than whether or not your Zoom background looked like a playroom exploded.

If this post helped you, I’d love for you to check out my other blog posts on real-life remote work, side hustles, and staying sane as a work-from-home parent. I write from experience—raw, real, and (hopefully) helpful.

Thanks for being here, and hang in there—you’ve got this!