Before I became a parent, I had all kinds of expectations about what parenting would entail. Now, almost a decade into this journey, many of those notions seem downright silly. The same goes for my preconceptions about being a stay-at-home mom (SAHM) — especially the idea of what it would be like when my kids started school.
As I transitioned from caring for infants and toddlers to managing school-age kids, I realized just how misguided my assumptions were. I remember thinking that being a SAHM with kids in school meant endless hours of lounging around, indulging in daytime TV and snacks. How naive!
People often ask, “What do you actually do all day?” I completely understand their curiosity. For those unfamiliar with the world of at-home parents, we might seem like a mysterious bunch. And for those of us who are SAHMs with children in school, the question is even more pressing. What on earth could we be doing from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. while others are at work?
Well, let me fill you in. Some of us are diving into our side jobs, the ones that help keep the lights on. That woman you see watering her garden in the middle of the day? She might be juggling client calls in between school meetings and playdates. She could be responding to emails while waiting in the carpool line or working on her laptop after the kids are asleep.
Others are busy managing a plethora of responsibilities. We’re coordinating doctor’s appointments, discussing our kids’ needs with teachers and specialists, tackling mountains of laundry, and making multiple trips to the grocery store to stock up on snacks for after-school playdates. We’re volunteering our time at school, community organizations, and even helping aging relatives with their errands.
Yes, sometimes, when we finally tick off everything on our to-do lists, we might treat ourselves. We might meet a friend for lunch to enjoy some adult conversation, or get a pedicure to pamper ourselves. A long, hot shower? Absolutely deserved after years of quick rinses and dry shampoo!
Our kids may be in school for a significant chunk of the day, but that doesn’t equate to a life of leisure. We’re engaged in a variety of activities—some meaningful, some mundane, but all part of our busy lives. My initial assumptions about being a stay-at-home mom were shattered pretty quickly after my first child arrived. Now that my kids are in school, I’ve found even more ways to fill my days productively.
I’m handling freelance work, connecting with clients, and managing errands that used to be nearly impossible with little ones in tow. I’m rediscovering the joy of cooking beyond the usual mac and cheese and frozen nuggets. I’m reconnecting with friends and nurturing relationships that took a backseat during those exhausting early years. And yes, I might even take time for myself every now and then.
So, to dispel the myths: I am not doing nothing. I’m actively engaged in many things, from the important to the trivial. Contrary to popular belief, I’m not lounging around watching soap operas and munching on bonbons. It’s more like enjoying a Kit Kat bar while catching up on “The View,” thank you very much!
If you’re interested in learning more about home insemination and related topics, check out this excellent resource on in vitro fertilisation and visit Make a Mom for authoritative insights.
In summary, being a stay-at-home mom with school-age kids is far from a leisurely lifestyle. Our days are filled with responsibilities, tasks, and even a bit of self-care. We’re actively contributing to our families and communities in countless ways, and it’s important to recognize that our work is both diverse and valuable.