Updated: July 22, 2020
Originally Published: Jan. 17, 2014
I can still picture that moment like it was yesterday. My partner kissed us goodbye, and as the door clicked shut, I stood there feeling a mix of excitement and sheer panic. A toddler darted around my feet while I cradled a crying infant in my arms. Rain danced on the windows, and I heard the car fade into the distance. At that moment, I realized I was officially a stay-at-home mom—the title etched on my forehead like a badge of honor.
I glanced at the clock: 8:32 AM. Now what? Nerves kicked in. What on earth would I do all day with an infant and a two-year-old? I rifled through the closet with my free hand and grabbed the play dough bin. I can handle this! (Cue cheerful wink). After all, I managed a classroom of 25 kids—two should be a breeze, right? Fast forward to 8:54 AM, and the play dough session was over. Wait, what? Three hours until lunch, four until nap time, and 11 until my partner returned home (if luck was on my side). Oh boy, I needed a plan—a survival plan.
Three years and another child later, I’ve learned how to navigate the SAHM life, but it hasn’t always been smooth sailing. So, what do stay-at-home moms really do all day? We juggle a million tasks: dressing, cooking, feeding, cuddling, teaching, and sometimes, we manage to squeeze in a meal for ourselves—most likely while standing. It’s a demanding job, full of challenges and loneliness, yet incredibly rewarding. Here are my eight essential tips for stay-at-home moms:
- Plan Ahead: The night before, take some time to outline the next day’s activities. Trust me, when your toddler is whining for breakfast and the baby needs a diaper change, you won’t have the luxury of deciding on the fly. Do your planning while the kids are asleep.
- Get Outside: If you stay cooped up all day, you’ll drive yourself mad. Your kids will too, and your home will descend into chaos. Even if it’s just stepping out for some fresh air or heading to the local grocery store—just get out! A little change of scenery can do wonders.
- Seek Free Activities: Familiarize yourself with local free events. Search for playgrounds within a 10-mile radius and don’t overlook your local library. It’s become my best friend—storytime equals one hour where you can just enjoy watching your child sing “The Wheels on the Bus” while avoiding snotty surprises from nearby kids.
- Make Connections: Don’t hesitate to reach out to other moms. They’re often just as eager to form friendships. Spot a fellow mom at the park or in your playgroup? Invite her over for a playdate. You’ll appreciate the adult conversation and the distraction for your little ones.
- Prioritize Exercise: I don’t work out just to stay fit; I do it for my mental health. It’s the only time I can gather my thoughts without interruptions. If you can’t find time to go to the gym, consider using a jogger for runs or doing a quick yoga session at home while the kids nap. Remember, “make it work,” as Tim Gunn would say.
- Treat Yourself: Carve out time for yourself at least once a week. Being a stay-at-home mom is a full-time job with no breaks. After navigating the daily chaos, treat yourself to a coffee run or a spa day. Your kids will be just fine, and you both deserve a little time apart.
- Embrace Flexibility: Remember, you’re the boss! If your kids want to stay in pajamas all day or skip a museum trip, go for it. Life is short, and these moments are fleeting. Don’t hesitate to break the rules occasionally and just enjoy the time you have with them.
- Make Moments Matter: Your time as a stay-at-home mom is precious and won’t last forever. Get down on the floor and engage in play, run around outside, or dance to your favorite tunes. Try not to stress about chores—focus on creating joyful memories instead.
This article was originally published on January 17, 2014.
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In summary, being a stay-at-home mom is both challenging and rewarding. By planning ahead, getting out of the house, forming connections, and prioritizing self-care, you can navigate this unique journey with confidence. Remember to cherish the moments you have with your kids and embrace the beautiful chaos of motherhood.