Here in the United States, even the most family friendly companies aren't entirely enthusiastic about bringing children into the office. But the balance of professional employee and working parent (especially of two small kids) is a tough one.

Tonight, the kids are here and they're already antsy. They have been here about 10 minutes.

Here's some things that help make it easier if you have to bring your own kids to an office:

• An oversized Conference Room easel paper makes great artwork center.
• Most kids LOVE sticky notes. No idea why but they do.
• The whiteboard is also a great location for scribbling. Just don't let your daughter erase the project flow you've been stuck on concepting for 3 months and just got outlined yesterday.
• Make sure you have scrap paper, scissors and crayons handy.
• They can make jewelry with paper clips.
• Folders make great tents - you can use them as shelter for a stuffed bunny.
• Keep snacks handy in case they pop in unexpectedly. I keep juice boxes and granola bars handy just in case.
  
• As a last resort? DVD all the way. I keep a video in my desk in case I need to keep them here more than a half hour. I borrow our company DVD player.
  

I try to keep their visiting time to a minimum. They get easily distracted and I have enough to clean at home without having to constantly clean up  the office. But if you're lucky enough to be in a place where you can bring them in once in a while, being prepared helps.