The decline of the American family may be greatly due to the overwhelming amount of time constraints placed on parents. Trying to squeeze in a social life, keeping up the household chores and working a full time job...it's no wonder we are losing the parenting war. Time is divided between soccer games, PTA meetings, homework, cooking, cleaning, laundry, shopping, errands, visiting friends, hobbies, home repair, vehicle maintenance, volunteer work, reading, after hours meetings with clients, going to the gym, doctor's appointments, retirement and college fund planning, quality time with the kids, conversation with your spouse, sex and getting your hair done... Whew! It is no wonder we drag ouselves out of bed!

Many families are looking at an Home Based business to relieve some of the stress while still bringing in income. Set your own schedule, work at your own pace all while considering what is really important in life. You are the boss, so no need to ask if you can have Tuesday night off to see your son's first public performance as a tree?).

Working from home can allow you to juggle your priorities according to your value system. Business priorities benefit the family and the family can now benefit the business. With home based businesses, the children can help with household and business tasks, while providing comic relief.

Involving the family in your business can provide a sense of belonging and togetherness. Camaraderie can carry the day when the work is overwhelming and every one pitches in to help. Children can learn important life lessons by being involved in the family business. Children learn more from watching than they ever do from you telling them what to do when you work from home. You will never have to give "parental guidance"...work ethic, honesty and integrity can all be taught without speaking a word. It's been said: "Children more attention pay to what you do than what you say"....and it is true!

There will be days when work spills over into time ordinarily spent with family. It is good to know however, that they are only a few steps away. Getting an unexpected glass of tea and a peanut buttery kiss from a little one can you give the encouragement you need to get through that last hour of work!

A home based business is an excellent way to integrate work demands with family priorities.