Follow your heart. It's such a hard decision. If money is a major issue then you have to evaluate the pros and cons. Children are more adaptable than we are!
When my children were infants, I didn't want to work. I wanted to be the one to witness all the milestones. Those memories were worth more than any paycheck. As they get older they don't need you as much, but I always wanted to participate in their schools -- the field trips, the classroom room parent, and have their friends come over. And I wanted to be there after school for them. My husband and I knew that it would be a struggle, but that was a decision we made. Perhaps you can form a home based business. Is a part-time position a possibility? If you have school age children perhaps you can work for the school district. Then you can have the same schedule they have. Or are you open to doing day care in your home for other working parents?
I worked part time and went back to school when my youngest was in pre-school. My children attended a parent participation preschool, so I was able to coordinate my schedule so that I had one day a week with no committments. That allowed me to sign up to work in their classrooms on that day. I took a one or two classes each semester and when they were older I got my degree. That helped me prevent the burnout factor. Before I went back to school I picked up "shifts" at the pre-school for moms who worked full-time. It was nice to have a little spending money that didn't interfere with the family budget. When I worked in an office, they allowed me to work around my children's schedule. Another job I had allowed me to come in after the office closed at 2 and I could bring my children if I had to. I had the option of working in the evening if necessary. My job choices were based on the flexibility they offered.
Good luck in your decision.
BONAR81 3/15/07 2:21 P
I have to work as I make more money than my spouse. and i love to work. i have noticed that since i went back to work i spend more quality time with my son even if the quantity is less. I have to make the most of my time so every minute i have with him we play, read, color, snuggle, etc.
it is a personal decision to make and i think you will have feelings of guilt regarding something no matter what route yu choose.
MOM2BOYS1975 3/14/07 11:49 A
I've been a sahm for about 5 years now and I watch a few neighbor kids for extra cash, though I have announced my "retirement" at the end of this school year. I'm back in school now.
It has some drawbacks, but the money is nice, and there are other kids around to entertain your kids.
Just put the word out and see if you get responses.
MTKILL 3/14/07 11:11 A
I can relate to money being tight - I have been home for almost five years now and it is always an issue around here.
Can you pick up extra houses? Maybe ask your current clients if they can refer you to friends or family members.
Maybe do childcare from home for the summer? I am sure that your kids have school age friends who are going to need daycare in the summer. They would have playmates, you would have money. Depending on where you live, you can usually keep a few kids without becoming a licensed daycare provider.
In the summer, can you take your kids with you to clean houses? My mom has cleaned houses most of my life, and we always went with her. Your kids would have to be very respectful of other people's things. We often sat at a table and did coloring/workbooks. If your kids are old enough to be outside alone, they could do sidewalk chalk (you could rinse it off easily with a hose before you go), or other outdoor activities. They could also watch TV or a movie.
Just a few thoughts.
KAYKAYKIWI 3/14/07 8:45 A
I am in a situation where I have to decide on whether to work a public job or continue to be a stay at home mom. I am getting all sorts of feelings of guilt, selfishness etc. What am I to do?
