Should I work at home...or should I work outside of the home? This is a question that has crossed the mind of all mothers! In deciding what avenue is best for you, you must ask yourself many questions.
I worked outside of the home for many years. I taught on the College level and had a nice job! We decided that our family needed mom home, at least for now! With two small children, a husband with a very demanding, professional job.....we came to the conclusion that mom could be used more at the house.
I will never forget the day my four year old looked at me and said, "Mommy, why did you not stay home with me when I was a baby? Is it because I did not understand?" The question caught me off guard. I do no even remember how I answered her, but I do know I helped her understand that it was not because she did not understand.
Our children are only little for such a small period of time! I will forever be thankful that I have been here with them and for them!
You may say, "Well, I will miss out on not having adult conversation!" That has NEVER crossed my mind. You may say, "Well, my children will miss out on being around other children." That problem has not existed here! Here is our weekly routine:
I teach my 4 year old every morning (she is reading and writing at 4, doing math, knows the names of ALL the Presidents, knows many of the states...and the list goes on!), we go to reading circles at the library one day a week, she is in a structured gymnastic team each week, she is in an organized church children's club, she has play dates with friends..and on and on! As she is participating in each of these events...guess what mom is doing...... talking to other moms! So, I have no lack of adult conversation and my child has PLENTY of fellowship with her friends. I also am building a VERY successful business while I am home with my kids, so I have daily contact with the members of my team! I have met some of the most amazing people in the country!
This time has also been an amazing bonding time for the two kids! Big sister is "mother hen" and little sister idolizes the ground that she walks on! These days will never be here again!
Consider all that you pay for gas to go to work, the large daycare bill, lunches, new clothes...is it costing you to work outside the home? Where can you cut back to make it happen? So, you won't be able to buy as many new clothes, we probably don't need them anyway! (Actually, I am pretty happy that I can still wear the same single digit size that I did before I got pregnant!)
I truly want what is best for you and your family, but if at all possible, stay with your kids! I have NEVER talked to a mom that stays home who regrets it! Take this approach. When your kids go to school, you can go back too. Find a job at a loca
l school, be a teacher's aid, or return to teaching! When your kids are off, so are you. And the summers...everyone will be home!
So, next time I hear my child say, "Mommy, why did you not stay home with me when I was a baby. Is it because I did not understand?" The answer will immediately fly from my lips, "No, Sweetie, it is because MOM did not understand!"
