As a single mom who has juggled multiple jobs, I’ve experienced the full spectrum of parenting responsibilities. Now that I’m married, I’ve worked full-time, part-time, from home, and even homeschooled my children. Throughout all these changes, I’ve occasionally encountered individuals who seem to think that being a stay-at-home parent (SAHP) means I’m available as their backup plan.
Let me clarify: when genuine emergencies arise, I’m all in. If you find yourself needing to rush to the ER in the middle of the night, I’ll gladly help out. If your car breaks down and you can’t pick up your kids from school, no problem—send them my way. However, the situations I’m referring to aren’t emergencies at all.
1. Sick Kids
If your child is unwell, please don’t send them to me or anyone else. It’s a shared understanding that no one wants to risk their own family catching whatever your child has. Keep them at home where they can rest and recuperate.
2. School Breaks
School holidays are not surprises. You can anticipate when they’re coming, so please don’t show up at my door in a panic because your daycare plans fell through. Many people choose not to run daycares because they simply don’t want to. Your poor planning doesn’t create an emergency for me.
3. Unexpected Babysitting
It’s not acceptable to drop your child off for a playdate and then leave without a heads-up. This can lead to awkward situations where I’m left feeling responsible for a child whose parent has abandoned them, which, let’s face it, is a serious concern.
4. Promises to Kids
Avoid telling your child they can come over for meals or fun outings without discussing it with me first. This puts me in a tough spot, having to explain that no plans were made, which can disappoint your child.
5. Don’t Volunteer My Time
If you need help with tasks like baking cookies for a bake sale or managing a booth, that’s on you. Don’t assume that I’m available to take on your commitments just because I’m at home.
6. For Homeschoolers
If you think I’m going to tutor your child or homeschool them for you, think again. It’s a lot of work, and just because I choose to homeschool my children doesn’t mean I’m equipped or willing to take on yours.
While I might not clock in at a traditional job, my days are filled with homeschooling, housework, and raising my kids. So please, don’t assume that my time is free just because I’m not leaving the house for work.
For more parenting insights, check out our article on home insemination or learn about the essentials at Make a Mom. Also, consider visiting Rmany for excellent resources on pregnancy and home insemination.
In summary, being a stay-at-home parent does not mean being a fallback option for others’ scheduling mishaps. We have our own responsibilities and commitments that deserve respect and understanding.