Before stepping into the world of motherhood, I had a plethora of preconceived notions about parenting. Now, nearly a decade into this journey, many of those ideas seem downright humorous. The same goes for my expectations about being a stay-at-home mom (SAHM). Looking back, it’s comical how little I truly understood.
Even though I navigated the challenges of caring for newborns, toddlers, and preschoolers, I still held onto certain misconceptions about what being a SAHM with school-aged children would entail. You know the stereotypes—relaxing with soap operas and indulging in bonbons. Utterly laughable.
What Do We Do All Day?
People often ask, “What do you do all day?” It’s a fair question, especially to those who aren’t familiar with the lives of at-home parents. The mystery deepens when it comes to SAHMs whose kids are in school. What could we possibly be up to during those hours from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. while others are at work?
Well, let me enlighten you. Many of us are hustling to juggle multiple responsibilities. The woman you see tending to her garden or walking her dog might be juggling client meetings in between school events. She could be answering emails while waiting in the carpool line or working late into the night after the kids have gone to bed. Others are busy coordinating medical appointments, negotiating with insurance companies, and tackling mountains of laundry.
We are often involved in caregiving for aging parents or volunteering in our communities. Whether it’s running errands or organizing playdates, our days are filled with important tasks. Yes, we may also carve out time for ourselves. After the daily grind, we might enjoy lunch with a friend or treat ourselves to a pedicure. A long, hot shower is a luxury we’ve earned after years of hasty routines.
A Full and Vibrant Life
Though our children are in school for several hours each day, that doesn’t equate to a life of leisure. We engage in meaningful and trivial tasks alike, balancing our responsibilities and self-care. My own assumptions about being a SAHM were shattered when my first child was born, and now, with both kids in school, I’ve realized just how much there is to do.
In addition to freelance work and client calls, I’m rediscovering the joys of cooking and rekindling friendships that took a backseat during the early years of parenthood. I might indulge in a casual visit to a bookstore, or maybe even take a walk to boost my mood.
Contrary to popular belief, I am not lounging around watching TV. My life is full, vibrant, and productive. For more insight into motherhood, you can check out this excellent resource on pregnancy and home insemination.
Conclusion
In summary, being a stay-at-home mom with school-aged children is far from a leisurely existence. It’s a dynamic, multifaceted role that encompasses work, self-care, and community involvement.