The unexpected financial pressures brought on by the coronavirus pandemic have put a great deal of strain on many well-established younger families. This has pushed some to consider renting out extra rooms to extended family and friends to help offset some of the costs of owning a house.
This can be a great way to bring in some income, but there’s one consideration that should always be kept in mind: the kids. If you’re considering creating a co-living space that includes kids, here are four things to keep in mind if you want to keep everything cool and copacetic as you dwell together under one roof.
Set Expectations
First thing’s first, if you have kids and you’re thinking of renting out part of your home, it’s important that you set expectations for everyone involved.
For your kids, take the time to explain to them that someone else will be sharing your home. Reassure them that they will still have their own personal spaces. Also establish rules regarding who they are allowed to be alone with and who they’re supposed to consider an authority figure. Let them know that you’re available to help them process any emotions while they’re cohabitating with others, as well.
For yourself and anyone renting from you, it’s also important to go above and beyond normal roommate interview protocol, such as discussing habits and interests or divvying up chores. Along with these basics, you should also try to set expectations for potential renters when it comes to living in a space inhabited by children. For example, if someone is renting from you who has never had much experience with children, it’s a good idea to make sure they’re comfortable with the concept of a house that is both noisy and set up to be a kid-friendly space.
Boundaries Are a Must
Along with expectations, it’s also wise to establish clear boundaries for all parties involved. When you bought your house, you likely already considered the size and layout of the pad as far as it fit your nuclear family’s current and future needs.
But now you’re going to be parceling up that same space for more people. Take the time to clarify what areas are communal spaces — think a kitchen, living room, garage — and what areas are personal spaces, such as a bedroom or bathroom. If yours or any renter’s kids are attending virtual school, it’s also important to make sure that they have an isolated area, like their bedroom, where they won’t be disturbed by others as they attend class.
Crystal Clear Communication Is Essential
If you’re going to have kids and non-parent adults sharing the same space, it’s also a good idea to establish clear lines of communication.
Give renters acceptable ways to voice their concerns, vent frustration, or resolve struggles relating to their living environment.
Also, try to get kids — both those already living with you and any kids moving in — involved in the action. Give them regular opportunities to discuss how they feel about their home environment as well.
Stay Organized
Finally, if you’re going to cram more bodies into your living space, make sure to have a clear structure for who is in charge of what spaces and how things like cleaning and household chores will take place.
For instance, make sure that those who are renting understand how they’re expected to chip in and help. Don’t leave the kids out, either. There are many ways to assign various chores like decluttering and washing the dishes directly to your children.
Making Co-Living With Kids Possible
Asking non-parenting adults and kids to cohabitate in the same space isn’t impossible. However, it does take a good amount of forethought. Nevertheless, if you can set expectations, create boundaries, keep lines of communication open, and stay organized, you can certainly share your space with adults and children alike with limited drama and minimal trouble.
