April 17, 2023
The baby wakes me up, wailing as if the world is ending. I rush to let the dogs out, who are scratching at the door, reminding me I forgot to feed them. I scramble to find some shoes, grab a scoop, and stumble onto the back porch to fill their bowls. My 6-year-old and 4-year-old, already awake and glued to Wild Kratts, are clamoring for breakfast. I manage to throw a load of laundry in while simultaneously preparing three plates of toast and a pot of coffee. Just as I finally sit down with my coffee, the baby lets the dogs in, and they immediately snatch half of breakfast. Cue the crying. It’s a cycle I repeat daily.
Being a stay-at-home mom can be incredibly challenging. We often find ourselves venting about the endless cycle of parenting, cooking, and chores. It can feel monotonous, reading the same storybook repeatedly. The isolation can weigh heavily, especially when playdates are scarce and you lack transportation. Yet, being a SAHM can also be rewarding, delightful, and full of joy. I genuinely love being at home with my kids, and despite my years in university, I wouldn’t trade this for anything else. I’m not just surviving; I’m thriving.
1. Embrace Comfort
I often wear my favorite comfy robe. If I’m not leaving the house, I’m not getting dressed.
2. Pajama Days
My kids frequently stay in their pajamas. I’m not about to wrestle them into outfits no one else will see.
3. Utilize Television
Yes, I’m aware—someone might call Social Services! But thank you, Chris and Martin Kratt, for maintaining my sanity.
4. Books Are Our Allies
I may not be the mom who does nothing; even if it means reading my baby’s favorite book endlessly, we read. Fortunately, my older kids have expanded their literary interests.
5. Simple Breakfast Choices
I enforce a simple breakfast choice policy. They pick from three options: cereal, toast, or oatmeal. Once served, there’s no changing their minds – they eat what they chose.
6. Snack Options
If they don’t eat, they have three choices: an apple, a banana, or a plain slice of bread. They can have as much as they want, but only one of those options. This minimizes whining and simplifies my life.
7. Straightforward Lunches
Lunch is kept straightforward. After all, I once managed to set coleslaw on fire (yes, it’s possible). We stick to frozen meals with veggies or quick sandwiches, sometimes with a fruit cup added for good measure.
8. Stock Up on Snacks
Kids can turn hangry quite quickly, so fruit snacks, rice cakes, and gummies are lifesavers.
9. Teamwork with My Partner
My husband helps out. He handles cooking and cleaning up dishes; I don’t have the bandwidth to do it all.
10. Laundry Management
I manage the laundry but keep it in baskets. Who needs dressers? I wash and sort everything, but folding and ironing are generally out of the question.
11. Clean in Bursts
I clean in bursts. One day it’s the bathrooms, another day it’s the kids’ rooms. This way, I have more time for my kids, and my husband doesn’t mind the state of things.
12. Get Out of the House
We make it a point to get out of the house. Whether it’s a trip to Target, playdates, parks, or lessons, it keeps our days fun.
13. Dress Up for Outings
On outings, I make an effort to dress up. I’m more than just a mom; I enjoy makeup and fashion. Once we’re home, though, I revert to my comfy robe.
14. Schedule Playdates
We schedule regular playdates with friends I enjoy. It’s a win-win: my kids have fun, and I get to relax with other adults.
15. Embrace Creativity
I embrace creativity. This means glitter, tie-dye, and paint can be messy, but they are worth it for the joy they bring.
16. Playdough Days
Playdough is a lifesaver on dreary days. It’s a go-to activity that keeps the kids entertained.
17. Tub Time
When I’m feeling overwhelmed, I turn to the tub. A naked playtime with toys and bottles can keep them happy while I take a breather.
18. Outdoor Time
We spend time outside, even just in the front yard. While they run around, I can check my phone and remind them to play safely.
19. Engage in Conversations
We engage in conversations. My 5-year-old has plenty to share, and it’s worthwhile to genuinely listen to him.
20. Treasure Inside Jokes
Inside jokes are a treasure. My 2-year-old has a unique way of expressing himself, like calling grumpy people “silly beans,” which always makes me chuckle.
21. Accept the Mess
Sometimes, mess is unavoidable. I’ve learned to close my eyes and walk past the clutter in their rooms and the living space.
22. Educational TV
We don’t count educational TV as screen time. Shows like Wild Kratts and The Magic School Bus are part of our science curriculum.
23. Partner’s Arrival
My partner’s arrival home is my saving grace. I count the minutes until he walks through the door, ready to hand off the kids and find a moment to recharge.
24. Bad Days Happen
Bad days happen. Your kids might bicker, dinner could burn, and you may long for the office again. That’s perfectly normal.
25. Celebrate Great Days
Great days are also part of the package. They might create amazing art with you or help cook, reminding you just how lucky you are.
I focus on my children, manage household tasks, and carve out time for myself. Our lives are woven together with a blend of education and love. Some days are extraordinary, while others might find us glued to the couch to keep the peace. We do our best, and together, we thrive.
For more about the journey of parenthood, check out our post on couples’ fertility journey for intracervical insemination. For expert insights on at-home insemination, visit this helpful resource. If you want to understand more about intrauterine insemination, this article is excellent.
Summary: Being a stay-at-home mom can be both challenging and rewarding. By embracing simplicity, creativity, and the importance of adult interaction, I find ways to thrive in this role. From managing meals to enjoying spontaneous playdates, I navigate the ups and downs of motherhood with resilience and joy.