SAHMies and WAHMies: Choosing to Stay at Home with Mommy Networking

I hear it all the time. This is what I say to that. Go for it! SURE you may be giving up your social life, but NOT if you stay connected with activities around town and mommy support/playgroups. SURE if you want to split your income in half, but NOT if you turn a hobby into a business or join a well-established and growing mlm. Even watching a couple kids a few days a week and taking a few classes online are all viable options when you choose to stay at home.We are not ants. Do you remember that movie? Every task was for the good of the colony. Although some good can be drawn from this "idea", there is still a hidden sense of personal insignificance. And the truth is we as mothers play a HUGE irreplaceable role in how our children come to view themselves and their place in the world. Contrary to popular belief, climbing the corporate ladder does not make one a portrait of success. What's successful about raising children that don't know you or mind you or anyone else for that matter? After working in childcare for several years I have some strict opinions on the subject, however, I realize that what works for me very well may not work for someone else.

The National Institute of Child Health and Human Development along with the Institute of Child Development of the University of Minnesota conducted a study that showed children in daycares have significantly higher stress levels and signs of aggression than children who stay at home with their parent and or caregiver. I also read (however) that kids that attend daycare are better prepared socially and even academically. I can see how both plays a part in readying a child for the real world. So with that being said, both are worth considering, especially since children's personalities and preferences vary.

Can you afford it? Probably not lol! But staying home is definitely doable. It may involve cutting-back for a season. Which may mean driving a less attractive ride, skipping the Starbucks (yikes!) and sometimes turning down dinner dates with friends. The good thing is knowing with diligence, creativity and patience this "minimal lifestyle" doesn't have to last forever. It is a temporary trade for the younger years, building a foundation of character, security and confidence in our children. The idea of "staying home" to others can make you feel guilty about choosing to be a SAHM at times. Its as if you aren't giving your best and getting to "do nothing all day" pass. I have often times been tempted to believe this lie and it is my biggest demotivator! The life of a stay at home mom is a full-time, sometimes lonely, rewarding, frustrating, amazing, stinky, fun, tiring, spontaneous and priceless job. On top of the fact that our kids grow so fast and I don't want to miss one thing, this is only in addition to the call I feel to pour my life into caring and nurturing my family. It is my great honor. 

Ya  know, plenty of moms quit their jobs to stay home with their children and are doing very well for themselves. Some people are just happier working, so its the best fit for their families. But who's to say a mommy can't chose to be a WAHMie and WORK from home? The mothers in the video clip are some of my role models. They took a risk, believed in themselves and because of it they along with their families are living a healthier, wealthier life. Some were forced into it because of a layoff or divorce, but others simply wanted something more. More time at home with their family than at the office. Honing your skills and being the best you can at your job is wonderful, but not at the expense of your home and family. Kudos to those of you who have found a happy medium and are balancing these and rockin' at it. You are also fabulous role models. Encourage a mommy to follow her dreams and choose what she thinks is best for her family today!

::Good job SAHMies and WAHMies!::