What we moms do each day does matter in the lives of our families. The challenges are many, but the rewards come with time.
I am glad you stopped by! Here on the guide, you will receive tools to help get life and family in balance.
What You Will Find On The Stay-at-Home Mom Survival Guide
- A Complete Guide for Stay-at-Home Moms
- Learning activities for Infants
- Learning activities for Toddlers
- Learning activities for Preschoolers
- Learning activities for School-age children
- Homeschool Units
- Homemaking tips
- Simple recipes
- Preschool at Home Curriculum
We have been included in the most recent article on Twinkl’s top educational bloggers by the International educational publisher, Twinkl – you can read more here.
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Hello,
I love your webpage it is very helpful! I am a working mom with soon three kids and am looking to home school them. Your webpage is inspiring to me. Hopefully it does not matter that I am not a stay at home mom? I am interested in your oils and info on that. Also any info on home schooling also!
Thank you,
Nicole
Nicole, I am so happy for you! I will send you an email to connect that way. 🙂
This is great content I like the way you put in your perspective, Have you also read (BECOMING A SUCCESSFUL STAY AT HOME by Rose Bradley, it is another good content to read.
Thank you! I will have to check that out.
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Hello,
I found your website through Pinterest. I am a soon to be stay at home mom. Your website has great posts and articles, and I will keep coming back to check them out. Also, I really like your pins and have followed you on Pinterest!
May I please be added to your group board, Stay-at-Home Moms: Complete Guide. Even though I am a brand new blogger, still just starting out, I feel my pins would be a great addition to the board.
This blog is amazing and so imformative!! I’m a new blogger myself. I’m glad that I have taken up blogging, it’s so much fun to share my day to day experiences with my kids and my business. It’s a lot of fun!
I recently lost my job and will now be home with my kids for the first time. I'm wondering how to balance them. One is 17 months and the other is 3.5. How do I find activities that are fun and stimulating for both of them? I tried to find some local classes but I can't find any that will accept both ages together. This looks like a great advice blog!
I am glad you stopped by! I have activities listed for your children's age groups. Scroll to the top and you will see tabs for Toddlers and Preschool (just under the big picture at the top) click on them to view activities for your children's ages. Many can be done with both age groups-and because I have two older children who are 3 years apart, I often adapt the activities to accommodate both. I make note in many activities how you can make it simpler or more complex for different aged children. I hope that helps! Let me know how it goes. Although it is sad that you lost your job, I bet your family will benefit for the time you get to be home with them! Enjoy it while it lasts. I wish you well and don't hesitate to stop back and ask whatever questions you have. Take care!
This blog has saved my life 🙂 I am a new SAHM. I have twins, 19mos, boy and girl and it gets very difficult trying to keep them occupied during the day. I just couldnt think of ways to keep them occupied. I am used to giving birth and sending my children to child care centers as the twins will make 5 kids total for me. Now I work from home and spend a lot of time with the twins alone. Things would get really frustrating for me and the twins also. They wake up at 7am and by 10-10:30 am they are sleepy and cranky from boredom. I am so glad I came across this site. It has given me some really great ideas on how to spend time with my little one's while also helping with their developmental skills. I will definitely keep coming back 🙂
I am so glad to hear that! It is nice to be able to connect with other twin moms too. What a wild ride at times trying to juggle! This comment made my day. I hope to see you back here soon. 🙂
Thank you for your blog. I am learning a lot and getting some great ideas. I am specifically looking for input regarding structuring a routine with my 13 month old baby girl. I work 3 days a week, but am home with her the other 4. She does not attend daycare. An aunt comes to our home on the days I work. I'm not the most creative or energetic person, and I am starting to feel like my daughter needs some structure, routine and fun, educational activities. And I need to figure out ways to amp up my creativity and energy for her. As of right now, she eats when she's hungry, sleeps when she's tired, and plays hard at all times in between. She normally is awake between 6:30-7 and in bed by 8pm and typically has 2 naps during day…late morning and mid-afternoon. Any suggestions for us? Thank you!
Hi Tara! What a wonderful situation to be able to have family watch your daughter. I love that. I have a lot of activities listed on the Toddler Activities page-scroll to the top of this page and click the tab that reads "Toddler Activities. The images are still being restored, but the activity descriptions are still there. Some may be links that lead to posts I have written with full photos and more detail as well. I would encourage you to plan out a little routine for your daughter, but keep it flexible too. Kids do not need formal structure like in school environments when they are still so little, but they can benefit from knowing what comes next. Here is what I did when my oldest was the only child and a toddler: He woke up, we ate breakfast together, got dressed and then went for a walk (my exercise and his time to observe the world). When we got home, I would often need to do some household tasks while he played independently; other days, I would play with him or engage him in a coloring activity or other age-appropriate activity that I have posted on the toddler page. We would then eat lunch and he would take a nap-at one year old I would read him a book and then he was able to just lay down and sleep with a couple of books and toys in his bed to help him fall asleep. He only took one nap a day at this age. (My second child never napped like this, so we just did a quiet time with a movie.) He would rest for a couple of hours, but even an hour is great. After that we had snack, then headed outside to play for a bit if the weather was nice. We tried to stay out for at least an hour. When we got in, we would do an activity-possibly revisit something from the morning or another day. After that we had dinner-he would play with Daddy while I made dinner. Then it was just free play for him while my husband and I relaxed for a bit before bath and bed. We gathered all together in my child's room, read two books, and then my son went to sleep. So that was our loose structure most days. Most of the learning activities were reading books at this age as well. When we had appointments or play dates with friends, things were adjusted. I think learning flexibility is great for kids! I would encourage your child's aunt to take her to a library storytime event or indoor play areas every now and then if you have them in your area. Hopefully you can adapt that to fit your and your daughter's needs! All the best!
Hello. I am a part time SAHM of 2 girls, 14 months and 2 1/2. My husband and I work alternating shifts so I have them from 7-4 and he has them 4-9. Its very difficult to find time to clean, cook, and try to play /teach them during the day. So I am ashamed to say they watch a LOT of Nick Jr. We have NO help at all from relatives and its sometimes disheartening. But I think if I had some ideas of what they may enjoy I could change the T.V situation. Fingrees crossed
Shannon, do not be ashamed! I have to tell you, growing up I watched a lot of tv because my mom worked part time night shift and my dad worked all day. I never looked at my mom as not doing enough because I knew she was keeping us safe and close just by being at home with us during the day, and that at night she was working to contribute to our home financially as well. Go easy on yourself and really know that you are serving your family! I hope that once you can balance the home and work tasks-which really are priority one-then maybe if you have time you can add in a learning activity here and there. The beauty of the activities on this site are that you can make them once and use them many times. The kids will know which activities they can "play" with and then it frees you up to take on some of the to do list. Hang in there!
I think your blog is great! I am also a stay at home mom and have been for the past four years (well almost, at least). It's been a rollercoaster that is for sure, I have learned a lot of things through this journey in motherhood. I also have a blog where I help moms see the positive aspect of mothering through encouraging tips and tools to help them. Blogging helps me in so many ways, especially to keep my sanity. I love your page and will be back! 🙂
Thanks so much! I appreciate that and I am so glad that you are trying to help moms stay positive as well! I would love to check out your blog if you get a chance to leave me the link some time. Take care!
Hi I just found this page I am stayed at home mom of two girls 4and 5 and I am overwhelmed my husband is not military but he travel because of work is hard when he is not here my family is far so is only my 2girls and my self. I feel alone I don't like it thank you for letting me expressed how I feel. God bless all military and FAM for making sacrifices but at the same time making work. 🙂
I am so glad you did share! It does get lonely when we are the only parent home during the day-especially when husbands travel for work. Thank you for your well wishes. I will be thinking of you! Please stop back and let me know how you are doing. Take care!
I am a SAHM of 4 children ages 4 and under (4y/o, 3 y/o, twin 7 m/o) and my husband and I have decided to home school our children with myself being primary teacher of course as he works out of the home. I am confident this is the right decision for our family as I have a strong desire and determination to do this that seems to plow through any fear or doubt I have about my own abilities or inabilities (the Lord's doing I am certain). I found your website yesterday and am encouraged by your attitude and truthfulness about motherhood and being a SAHM. I can also totally relate to you as my children are the greatest, most precious gift I have ever received and yet the most awesome challenge, bringing me to my knees often. I am thankful for all your games and the fact that they are both fun and educational. I have used a few already with great results and just wanted to say thank you! and God bless you!
YOU are very welcome, and be sure to stop back to give me advice on twins! (My twins will be here soon.) You are where you are because God needs you there. It sounds like you have a great mindset already and a wonderful devotion to your purpose during this season of your life. Your comment gives me chills, because it is so wonderful to connect and know that this blog is serving its purpose! I wish you the best and I know God is leading you in the right direction. Blessings to you and your family!
Thank you for your website. I am a SAHM and have begun to worry that maybe our 8 month old should not be watching TV. She's not in front of it all day long, but I don't want to use it as a crutch either. I was searching for activities we can do together and found your website. Can't wait to get started with her. It's intimidating sometimes to think "what in the world am I going to do all day with her?" I found encouragement to tackle the TV issue with your activities. Thanks again!
That is about the best comment I can receive! It means so much that this little blog can help you out and give you some options for spending more time together with your child and less time with the tv. (My kids have days where they watch too much, but we try to balance it out…that is all any of us can do.) I hope you can find the balance and remain encouraged with all that you are teaching her each day-even when you don't feel like you are doing something important. I wish you the best and hope you will stop back again.
I just have a question regarding the activity, "Infants can Paint". What kind of paint do you give to infants or kids that are just over 12 months old, but still putting everything in their mouths? Do you just make your own or do you get a particular brand or paint from a specific store like Walmart or something like that? I'm considering the painting activity with my nearly 13 mth daughter, but unsure how to do it. Thanks!
Good question! I use tempera paint and I am next to my child at all times at this age while they are painting so I can say, "Paint on the paper it's not for your mouth." Make sure to read any labels of paints that you purchase to be sure they say "non-toxic" and supervision is necessary! There are paints that are edible that you can make at home-a quick internet search or browsing of Pinterest can give you access to many options there is that is more what you prefer to do. I prefer to teach my children that paint does not go in the mouth just so they are always safe. I wish you well!
Very inspiring blog… i love your ideas… I am so eager and excited to try out some activities with my 15 months old infant 'Erishka'… must say again very inspiring
I am excited for you to try them! Thank you for such a nice comment. All the best to you and your family.
I am a recently new stay at home mom. I was a paramedic for 2 years, I have 2 boys, 8 and 5. After getting married and buying our first home it was a necessity to stay at home because lets face it- daycare is more expensive than what I was bringing home in a paycheck… I have my mixed emotions about it. Some days I am thrilled to be home and actually enjoy cleaning and all the whatnot, and even being able to hangout on pinterest for a while. But other days I get overly bored, I feel like I am not doing anything to help out anymore, and frankly just miss being on the ambulance all together. It doesnt help that we live in the city I worked in, so all day every day all I hear are sirens! Im wondering if you have any tips or anything to maybe take my mind off of the adjustment? Today I am at home with my youngest who had a fever this morning.
It can be hard to realize all that you do in a day when you are staying home. There will be a period where you will still view yourself as a "paramedic" and want to be fulfilling that defined role. "Mother" is the most important job we will do. You are the one there for your children each day-able to be home without too much hassle when kids get sick. I know you have school-aged children, so they are not home every day with you, but by choosing to take care of the home, you are showing them that you want to provide them with a safe, comfortable place to land at the end of a day. Your husband too I would imagine will be feeling a load off of him since he can go to work and not have to take on as many of the chores at home as maybe he had to previously-obviously I don't know how you divided things up before, so I am only speaking in theory. It will take time, but really, just the financial matter alone-your paycheck would not even be your's. It would go to child care costs. So, you are not losing, your family is gaining. Are there ways that you can volunteer hours at a local fire department or shelter where your skills can be put to use while still maintaining a flexible schedule? Volunteer a day a week in each child's classroom to be present and involved there. I would recommend not spending too much time on the computer-that can just lead to more feelings of lack of productivity. Balance will come, just be patient and keep your family first in your mind. I wish you the best!
Thank you so much for sharing all this great information. I am a SAHM to 8yr-old she will be starting 3rd grade on Monday, 4yr old son and an 18m girl who keeps me on my feet all day long.
My 4yr old son attended preschool last year and loved every minute of it, unfortunately this school year he will be staying home with me. We moved to a different town and the preschool program is overly crowded, there was no availability for him. This was a big bummer, since he was looking forward to making new friends and learning "fun"things like he says. I decided to homeschool and keep him on track with everything he already knows. It will definitely be a big challenge with my younger one running around the house. I hope I can make it interesting enough for him. I will continue to follow you to help me create ideas for our lessons thank you!
Rosa, don't worry too much about your son not attending a preschool program. You can get him prepared for Kindergarten at home. The activities that I post are meant to be fun for kids and also give moms peace of mind that learning is taking place as well. I recently wrote a post about Preschool and how you are not really holding your child back if they don't go to a preschool program. It's called, "Is Preschool Worth It?" Maybe it can offer some additional motivation and resources that working with you at home will be all that he needs! You will be great and I am glad that you stopped by. Take care!
Dear Jaimi,
I cannot express to you how happy I am that I came across this website!!! I am a SAHM to a 3 1/2 year old, 2 year old and a 4 month old (ALL BOYS). With the newborn around I feel all my kids do is watch TV and play with their toys all day long. I always feel bad that they do not do anything productive such as these activities you have listed. I am SO happy I found you! I plan on making a weekly activity box for the older ones. I just feel like I am such a bad mom with not being able to cater to their "educational needs" they way they should be. THANK YOU SO MUCH!!!!!
Best,
Maria
Don't feel bad, Maria. I have been struggling a bit with similar feelings this summer as I have been less-than-energetic being pregnant with twins. My kids watched more tv on many days than I liked. I try to think of the days where I was able to take them to an indoor play area, playground, read tons of books, or do a few activities at the table. I am so glad that you found this blog and it's good to know there are other moms out there that sometimes have to learn to balance-I am one of them! Take advantage of the good days and be productive, and on the rough days, the least we can do is make sure that the tv is educational. Your activity box idea sounds great! Let me know how it goes. 🙂
Dear Jaimi,
Thank you for creating such a beautiful website and blog for moms, I am a SAHM to a wonderful 15 month old boy and have been wanting to find some activities for him to do at home with me. Your ideas are are fantastic and I can't wait to start putting them into practice with my boy, I know he will love them.
Thank you, from Krystal
You are so sweet! Thank YOU! I wish you the best as you try these out and have fun. Stop back again.
hi there, I am a SAHM of a 14 month old.. #2 on the way. I am struggling with staying and home as it is exhausting.. I hate to say anything because I know I am blessed to have a loving supportive hard working man to make it happen but its hard. I have always worked and enjoyed my freedom. Just the little I have read on your blog has really inspired me. I want whats best for my children, family and husband and know being a devoted mom and wife making our home a home is what my calling is right now. Thank you so much for the time you take to help us all. I am excited to look more into your blog and share with other SAHM! thank you! God bless you and your family
Candice, your comment makes my day! The whole purpose of this blog is to reach moms like you (and me) who have those rough days and need reinforcement that this is just a season of life. Our children will learn what we show and teach, but it takes a lot of patience and perseverance on our parts to stick with them-and with this "mommy thing"-to see them through. We really are investing in them for the long-term and that takes a lot of time now while they are so young and developing their ideas of how life and families work. I congratulate you for seeking out a way to stay motivated and positive!! Hooray!! You are giving your family so much…and, it is ok to have bad days, just don't let them take away the knowledge that in the end, you will have given all that you can each day to make sure your family is cared for. Kudos to you! I appreciate you taking the time to share your thoughts. That means a lot to me. All the best to you!
I just recently became a SAHM to my almost 5 year old son and almost 4 month old daughter. When I say just recently, I mean, this is my second week home with them. I find balancing my day between the two is very trying. If I do not bury my son in activities, he gets whiny, into things he shouldn't be getting into, etc. It gets tough trying to keep him entertained while taking care of my daughter. Thank you for these ideas for keeping the kids busy. So far, my son likes them. We are still trying to get down a routine, but my daughters routine changes everyday making a daily schedule almost impossible. Any suggestions how to incorporate a routine for 2 kids far apart in age?
First off, congratulations on being able to be home with your children! It can be a challenge at first as you learn to balance the needs of the children and the needs of the house, plus making sure you don't burn yourself out…oh, and the husband… Your children will have some transition time as well as they get used to being with you so much during the day-it is a change of routine for them as well, so you get to learn together. I am pretty patient with routine. I would say use the windows of time when your daughter is napping to do a little house work and also give your son some one-on-one time. We are usually more productive in the mornings (in our house), more structured, so that is when I would try to implement learning activities and one-on-one with my son after my daughter (when she was an infant) had been fed. Sometimes I would be holding her while helping my son, or she would be doing tummy time and I could sit with him and just read books. No matter what you have time to do, it will have an impact. The afternoons for us are still more wide-open. That is when I try to get the kids outside. Your infant can do some tummy time outside, or take a bouncy seat or swing and let her hang out while you play or get a hands-free moment. I think outdoor time is really key to being home with kids-when they have pent-up energy, it makes everything more difficult. Often what works for us is to get outside before dinner so the kids are a little tired out and more willing to give me time to cook. Don't worry too much about having a scheduled itinerary every day. I use a "done list" where I write down everything that I do once it's done. I still have a "to do" list, but many little things pop up each day that prevent me from charging through my to dos as quickly as I'd like. Right now, with the age gap being what it is, just use those windows of time when one child is asleep or content to fit in what you can. Give yourself some time to adjust and get used to life at home all day. Between 6 months and a year old is when many children have settled into a routine-that worked with my first born, but my second born I had to just work into our established schedule because she changed from day-to-day when I tried to work around her. Be patient with it all. I am glad to hear that the activities have been helping and keeping your son's interest! Take care and keep me posted on how it all goes.
Hi,
I'm a new mom to a 6month old baby boy. I chose to be a stay at home mom and feel blessed to have a husband that supports that decision. I stumbled upon your site and after only a few minutes of browsing, I'm already loving it!!! Thank you so much, Jaimi for such an invaluable resource for us stay at home moms! I never thought that I would be enjoying mommyhood as much as I am right now, but I think I'll be enjoying it even more now that I found your survival guide! I can't wait to try all the activities; I'm sure my baby would love them too! Thank you again, and continued blessings to you & your family,
Big Hugs,
Ann
Hi, Ann! Congratulations on your baby and getting to be home with him. I appreciate your kind words and am so glad that you find this site encouraging-that is my supreme hope! It all motivates me and it is here for the taking if it can help you stay positive and motivated as well. Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts. All the best to you and your family, as well.
Hello,
I am a stay at home mom as well and a frequent visitor of your site and you have created an amazing resources for us. My daughter is 5 years old and my little man is on the way ( due on June 2013). She always have fun learning and always looking forward for different activities. If im running out of ideas, she would tell look out in the computer and she will be the one to choose what she wanted to do that day.
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i really love your site and your ideas look great! however I notice that your site seems devoted to everything centering around the kids…do you know of any resources/tools that can help a SAHM keep enriching herself? that's what I'm missing a bit and at times what gets me down. I have 15 month old twins and sometimes feel i've lost a sense of me. sorry if that sounds self centered! Thanks for all your great info!
Your question is a very good one and one that a lot of us moms struggle with: the balancing of the reward and self-fulfillment that we receive from giving our time to our families and the desire to still follow our own personal goals separate from our children. What did you like to do before you had children? What work did you do or hobbies did you have? What classes can you take to engage with an interest or a hobby? Start there and implement what you have time for into your days when the kids are resting or watching a movie, at school (if they are in school already), or when your husband is home to care for them. Things that I do are go to lunch with friends on a Saturday, I write this blog, I accept guest post offers from other sites as my time allows, I host a monthly playgroup to gather with other moms and kids, I read and study the Bible before I go to bed at night, I walk with my kids in the stroller so they are facing out and I feel like it is 'me time', I shower in the evenings when my husband is home so that can be a restful time alone, and most importantly, I am aware that motherhood is a season. My devotion to my kids will not be the same as it is now forever. It's nice to know that I can give them all that I have each day now, and it is also nice to know that one day they will function in the world without needing me for so much all the time. Seasons of life…Enjoy the season you are in now, and fit in your 'me time' as you can, but remember that it is only a season. I wrote a post about 'me time' a little while back that lists some simple ways to spend time on ourselves without neglecting our children: https://thestay-at-home-momsurvivalguide.com/2011/12/creative-me-time.html. I hope that can help.
Hi! I have a 7 month old and am currently working. This summer I will be making the transition to be a SAHM. I am very excited and also intimidated. I'm so excited to find this blog with activities ideas!! Can't wait to put them to use… I may start with some of the activities on weekends! Thank you 🙂
Hi Becca, I am so excited that you will get to try out being a SAHM! All the best as you transition. I am glad to see that you are eager to start using some of the activities here. I hope they work well for you and that your child enjoys the time as well. How lucky for your little one to get so much time with you soon. Take care and let me know how it all goes. Take care!
Hello,
Stay at home mom here with a 3 year son. My other two are much older 19 and 22 years old…I find your site and activities refreshing thank you for taking the time to do this. Its hard when you don't have other at home moms support. My husband offered me the oppurtunity to stay home and raise our son and I jumped at it. Leaving my Fed jon of 22 years. I do find it challenging at times but you have given me some great activities to try out. Thanks again!
That is so great to hear that you have the option to stay home and are enjoying it. Your 3-year old is going to just soak up the learning like a sponge! It is nice that you have experience from your older two to rely on and that you get to apply all the lessons and wisdom-please feel free to share that frequently with the rest of us. I wish you all the best as you try out the activities. Thanks for leaving a comment and sharing a little! Take care!
Can I ask what your opinion is on a woman who is a SAHM with only one child? Our original plan (mine and my husband's) was for me to stay home. Since having our son who is 8 months old, we are strongly considering not having any more. He thinks that since we are only having one child, it isn't as important to be home.
By the way, I am so happy that I found your site!
Kandice, I have known some moms who did not stay home when they only had one child and intended to stay home once they had their second. I think a lot of moms/dads think in this way. To be perfectly honest, no matter if you have 1 or 5, their individual development and safety needs are the same. Daycare is just not as secure and attentive of an environment as a mom or family member in the home. Now, you have to consider your household financial situation. If more money is needed, then maybe you can add part time work and ask a family member to watch your child so you don't have to use daycare, or work evenings a few days a week after your husband is home-my mom worked very part-time as a nurse (midnight shift) so she could make additional money for our family and stay home with my brother and me during the day. No matter what, though, just considering developmental needs, he is better off at home with you until he is AT LEAST potty trained. Check out my post about why I do not use daycare if he wants more scientific facts linked with the realities of day care:
https://thestay-at-home-momsurvivalguide.com/2012/04/why-i-dont-use-daycare.html
I touch on the psychology of infants specifically in this post about infant development as well:
https://thestay-at-home-momsurvivalguide.com/2011/12/crash-course-in-child-development.html
I hope that can help at least add to the conversation with your husband. It's hard when you don't agree on what path to take, but do what is best for you family as a whole. Let me know if there is anything else I can help with. Take care!
This is a very interesting page. Thank you for all the good ideas. I live in Denmark and stay at home with my 3-year old son. It's not as common here as it is in USA and there are almost no webpages with inspiring ideas.
I am glad that you stopped by and I hope that the ideas continue to be helpful. I hope you enjoy your time with your son! Thanks for taking the time to comment and take care!
hi I am a first time stay at home breastfeeding mom I have a 12year old daughter 9year old son and a 4 month old baby girl who and 2 stepsons age 11 who demand my undivided attention. My husband is the bread winner and supports all of us I recently graduated nursing school last july while pregnant, however I am only going to be working 2 days a week once she turns six months I look forward to trying some of your ideas super excited about finding your site any advice about findind balance maybe even working from home will be greatly appreciated
You are definitely a busy mom! I think many of us here could learn a lot from you. I am so glad you commented and shared. Congrats on being able to be home. My mom was a nurse by night and SAHM by day, so I have seen how she balanced the two. Nursing is one of those great careers that offers a lot of shift options to help you balance work and family from what I witnessed. My mom worked midnights very part time (15-20 hours per pay period) until my brother and I were in junior high then she bumped her hours up to part time from there on out. Maybe rearranging your shifts could help you find that balance of income and time at home. If you were to switch to doing home care, I think you can really play with your hours, so that could be helpful as an option. I can say for sure it was not easy for her to work and stay home, but it definitely helped the financial situation. Focus on what your family needs you to do and soak up that time with your children while they are still young and at home. They will grow and be in school which will allow you more time to get back to working more hours. I wish you all the best in this! It's a challenge, but we moms are pretty tough. Take care!
I just found your site can not express how thrilled i am to have found it!! I have two boys, 4 and 2 years old and im due with my 3rd boy at the end of Feb. To say the least i have a full plate at home. I will no longer be working after this baby is born and im so happy i found your site so i am able to do creative and fun and mostly educational activities with my boys! I look forward to enjoying all your tips and tips from other moms who are lucky enough to be home with thier little ones. I know somedays are challenging but its great to have support from others!!
Well, welcome to the life of a SAHM soon! I am so happy that you will have this opportunity. You are definitely a busy mom and I am glad that you will be checking back. It is nice that we can all share and learn together. Take care and congrats on the soon-to-be new little one!
I've been a SAHM since '06 when I was finally able to get pregnant with my last child at the age of 41. This is my 2nd marriage and my husband never had the opportunity to have children in his previous marriage. I had always wanted another child. It took us 2 yrs. to finally conceive. It was more like a science project creating this child. The pregnancy was a bit difficult and had to be in a non-stressful environment if I wanted to keep this baby. So long story short, we had a healthy baby boy in '07. I've enjoyed all my time I had with him, which is something I never had with my other children (who are grown). In my first marriage, we needed the extra income. Now my little guy is 5 yrs. old and in school all day. Lately, I've thought about finding something to bring in some money. Not that we actually need it, but to feel like I am also providing for the family. My husband says I am but in my head because I am not contributing monetarily, I feel incomplete. For example, it would be nice to buy my husband's Christmas present out of my own funds and not money he made. I don't know why this is hitting me now. Any suggestions from anyone on how to work through this?
Ebbie, I definitely understand the conflict of feeling like when the income is coming in via only the husband that we tend to think of it as "his" money. I am ok with the idea that it is "our's" in my household just because I know that the things I do in our home to make it a safe, comfortable place for my family are valuable. Even though I don't make my own income, my husband's income provides for me to work my "job" of SAHM, and he has been supportive as it sounds like your husband is to you. It is such a blessing to have a supportive spouse! I would say, since your child is in school all day, that it certainly would be do-able to find a job that allowed you to work during his school hours and still be home after school-if that is what you would like to do. Maybe even part-time work would still give you time to work in your home doing the homemaking tasks so that you still could spend time with your family in the evening hours and on weekends. I think about this option for when my children are in school all day, although I do know from friends that even middle school and high school kids need supervision after school to help keep them 'honest' so to speak, so I am going to try to make sure whatever I can/need to do at that point still allows me to be responsible for my children at impressionable ages. Value yourself and the work you do in your home first! If you feel that you contribute, then the idea that it is "his money" and not your's will fall away. I also like to share that if you don't need extra income, in reality by not working a paying job, you are leaving that job open for someone who may really need that income. Just food for thought. I am glad you chose to share here because I know there are a lot of SAHMs that struggle with the same feelings that their contribution is not equal to their husband's since they don't earn a paycheck. Each of us has to make the choice that serves the needs of our family. Since you don't need the extra income, you have the time to weigh the options, create a pros/cons list and decide if the benefits of you working (more money, possible career advancement) outweigh the costs (more stress, more time away from home, possibly less time with your husband and child, etc). I wish you the best while you consider this. I hope that some of these thoughts are helpful. Take care!
Hi I just wanted to comment on this comment:) I am a former educator turned stay at home mom to three boys ages 5,3, and 1. I would love to bring in some extra money for our household but have felt impressed to volunteer in my son's kindergarten classroom instead. I go every Monday and Wednesday and help them complete their seat work or just provide extra supervision during center time. Then I read them a story I brought with me from home. They REALLY look forward to it and greet me each day as I drop off and pick up my son. Additionally it has given me the opportunity to know who and what my son is talking about. When someone tells him they don't want to be his friend I can say, "Oh Nygel is grumpy sometimes isn't he? Did you play with Beau instead?" all while knowing that Nygel is fun but something of a diva and Beau is simple, friendly, and kind. You see what I mean? Also I think we all assume kindergarten is similar to when we were kids. It isn't! A lot has changed and parents who volunteer are the only ones who really know what's going on. I have to pay someone to watch my other two twice a week (I only go for one hour a day) but it might be something to consider looking into since you don't have other littles under foot! Good Luck!
Hi
I am soon to be a SAHM of a 3 year old and one on the way. We will be moving to a new state. Like many of your readers, I wont know anyone. I am looking forward to the challenge of being at home with my kids, although it will be quite a change. Im very glad to have found your website.
Thank you for your insight and wisdom!
I am glad that you are reading along! We move every three years, so that feeling of not knowing anyone is very familiar to me. You will get a lot of time to just focus on your family. Groups like MOPS are great and also if your local library has a storytime, that can help get you out and in the company of other moms. I hope the move goes well! Enjoy the opportunity to stay home with your children-it's hard work, but worth it.
Hi 🙂
I am a SAHM to a 2yr old little girl. We just moved to a completely different state, due to my husbands work in the oil fields, and don't know a soul! It's alot different from being a military wife (husband just got honorably discharged from the Army) where everyone around you is "by themselves" and i havent quite found how to relate yet. Found your site through a friend and I have to say, it has been a lifesaver! It's not always easy keeping little miss entertained, but she loves everything we do from this site! So, a HUGE Thank You for that!!
Brittany, thank you so much for such a nice comment. I am so glad that this site/blog has been helpful so far. Thank you to you and your husband for your service! Being a military family is what I know now, so I can only imagine how it must feel to be in a state of transition. Do you have a MOPS group in your area? That would be a great place to start building relationships with moms in similar situations. I loved being a part of a MOPS group near our last duty station. I am so glad that you will be checking back here as well for more ideas to try with your daughter at home.
Hello! I am so excited to have found your website! I am expecting my first child in January and am planning to stay home for the pre-school years. I am a former educator and an Air Force wife, so I can appreciate your perspective. I taught Kindergarten and fourth grade for a total of 3 years and decided it was not the career for me, but I am still passionate about education. Your suggestions for activities for all ages are based in education, which is exactly what I want todo with my daughter while she is home with me. Keep up the inspiring work!
Jocelyn, thank YOU so much for the really nice comments. We military wives have so much common experience. I am glad that you shared here. Your child will gain so much through your experience as a teacher. Our homes really are classrooms for our children. I am so glad to know that you will be using some of these ideas with your own child. All the best as you enter the role of 'mom'-truly rewarding and very challenging if we let it.
Hi! I discovered your blog via Pinterest and I LOVE the ideas and activities here! I became a SAHM one year ago, which I think is the best decision we've ever made for our family. I currently have one awesome and VERY active 17-month old. I am avidly searching for ideas to keep us busy once the weather gets cold. Your blog is filled with fabulous ideas. Just thought you should know!
Thank you so much, Rachel! I am so glad to hear that the activities can be useful. It's nice to get that feedback so I know that continuing to update is valuable. Congrats on making making the choice to be a SAHM. It has its challenges, but what 'job' doesn't? I wish you the best as you enter year 2 of SAHM-hood. All the best and thank you for sharing your thoughts.
Hello! Just found your site through pinterest. OMG! So excited to get started on some of these!!! I'm not a SAHM, however, I still need plenty of ideas for my younsters. My kids are 1 and 4 and if I don't bury them in activities, they are either quarreling, crying or getting into things they have no business. Typical kid stuff! It really helps to have a variety of ideas to pull out of my hat in order to keep the kids (and MYSELF) sane. Thanks!
– Busy Mom in Alaska
I am so glad that you can use these ideas. I plan on adding a few more over the next week, so be sure to check back in from time to time. All the best as you balance this role of 'mom'. It is a challenge at times! All the best to you and your family!
I'm a technologically challenged Grandma, which is why I'm anonymous! Love this blog and the comments and here is my reflection:
I spend a lot of time with my 3 grandchildren, ages 2 months, 3 months, and almost 3. My SAHM experience ("children" now 34,31, and 28)stands me in good stead as I recall my time with my little ones.
We moved a lot with my husband's jobs, and he travelled extensively, so I was mostly on my own, making new friends all the time, far from family.
The one thing I realize now is how much I HATED having my house in turmoil all the time, but that the clean and orderly house I dreamed of came second to the children. So I learned to ignore the mess. It was seriously challenging but I couldn't allow my frustration to affect the children. So I cherished the spontanaity of putting snowsuits over pjs to run out and play in the first snow as it fell. BEFORE we cleaned up the breakfast dishes. Because who knew how long that snow would last?
Grandchildren are much more relaxing because now I can see how creative and responsible my adults are in their day to day lives.
I'm glad I did it the way I did.
Cheers to moms! And grandmas 😉
Thank you for sharing that. I have to say, this morning my kids were out on the deck in their pjs with rain coats and boots on because they HAD to experience the rain before it stopped, so I can relate to the snow story you told! I think you are very wise to suggest that we make sure to balance the home chores and our ability to be spontaneous with our children since we are at home with them. I actually really love that part of what I do all day-the eased schedule and time for dancing in the rain when the shower happens. I appreciate you sharing your experiences. How wonderful for your grandchildren (and children) that you get to spend so much time with them. All the best!
I just found your website through pinterest. I too am a stay at home mom and my husband is also an active duty United States Marine. This is my first time staying home with my three children, my boy is 6, my oldest girl is 4 and my youngest girl is about to be 3. I find staying at home trying at times probably because I am not organized with them. I am very happy and excited that I found this page 🙂
I am so glad that you took the time to comment here. Congrats on being able to stay home and being married to a Marine! 🙂 Being a SAHM is helpful AND stressful considering that our husbands can be gone frequently for varying amounts of time. Your children probably keep you very busy and I am so glad that you have found some ideas and activities that may help!
Anonymous,
I feel so connected to you as a fellow SAHM with close kids! 🙂 My boy is also 6, my oldest girl is 5, my youngest son is almost 3, and my youngest girl is 1.
I just found this blog today and am so excited about all the great ideas. I will be keeping you in my thoughts and prayers as I know you probably face similar stresses in your day with lots of precious young kiddos. 🙂
Sincerely, Kara
Hi Jaimi
I just found this blogsite and your preschool activities on Pinterest. Thank you so much for making this available. I am a SAHM for the past 5 years with twins (boy/girl) and a baby boy due May 3rd. Afternoons get long as the kids get squabbly and tired and I am constantly looking for things to do, especially now since I'm more tired with the pregnancy. I have jotted down 5-6 things that the kids need strengthening on with the alphabet and numbers and I can't wait to do them. Do you have a way to subscribe to your blog? I am kind of technologically behind with these sorts of things 🙂 I am a wife of an active duty soldier who will retire in less than 2 years-yay!! So I was totally relating to your latest blog about having a long day and even daddy walking in the door at night brought down the stress level for you, its so much harder when they are away. God bless you as you continue to bless others with your insights! Thanks for sharing
Jeni, I am so glad that you have found some activities that you can use. That is definitely one of the ways I use the activities I create-getting the kids focused and occupied (and learning) during the afternoons. I hope it all goes well and congrats on the new baby-soon! You can subscribe via the "Follow by Email" link at the top, left side of the page. For some reason it was not up, so you did not miss it. I appreciate your kind words and thank you and your husband for your service. How exciting to be near retirement! I am glad that you will be stopping back. Take care!