FTWM to a SAHM

Since my first DD was born 2.5 years ago, I have been a ftwm. Lately, have been thinking more and more about becoming a SAHM. I'm alittle intimidated honestly to be home with 2 children, making sure things run smooth, they get the socialization they need, and we all have fun! Daycare runs a tight ship with lots of activities and Im hoping DD doesnt' get bored with me! Although I do plan on enrolling her in a 2 year old program come january and she currently takes ballet. DS is only 4 months so not so worried about entertaining him, but could use some motherly advice!

Re: FTWM to a SAHM

I stopped working when DS1 was 16m. I didnt have DS 2 for another 2.5y.

It was a change, but you do adjust. The first 6m IMO are the adjustment period. YOu are super productive at first, then you start to fade, maybe feel like you are in a funk but then reinvent yourself as a TRUE SAHM.

Anyway, DS never had a "tight run ship" but I think as small children there is something nice about having a pajama day, about spending your whole day playing puzzles and watching movies, etc. I feel like there is no reason a child needs to be so scheduled and entertained at all times. My opinion is that they have their whole lives to be scheduled, but prior to being in school, there is something so special about not being so structured.

We always keep busy. Through meetup I found a playgroup where i was able to meet other moms, made some good friends with kids the same age, went to lots of library groups, this year for the first time we bought a membership to the aquarium which has been wonderful, another friend has one too and we went 3x together and I have been 2 other times with the kids as well. I used to meet friends at the mall, get lunch, walk the kids around, then let them play in the play areas, etc.

There is tons to do to keep the kids and yourself entertained. The greatest gifts though of being a SAHM though is that my time is my own to decide how to best use it. some days that means spending the whole day playing with my kids and neglecting all else, other days that means cleaning the house and not spending as much time playing while the kids play/watch tv etc.

GL!!!!

Re: FTWM to a SAHM

I left my job when DS 1 turned 3 and DS 2 was 10 months. Best decision ever!
I love where I live bc I have a lot of friends in the area for playdates. My DS 1 goes to preschool so that helps too and DS 2 takes a good nap in the afternoon giving me time to do me stuff... Cleaning, laundry, computer time, workout, etc. depending
We go to library, run errands, playdates, local playground or parks... I finally got a schedule down and so far it's working. Only been doing this since end of May.
If you can afford it then do it. I thought I could never be a SAHM, but I really love it. It's not always rainbows and unicorns though. Some days are tough. Like I said.... My 3 yr old in preschool for a few hours a day helps a lot.
Good luck!


Eta... I agree with he pp about days spending cleaning while they are preoccupied and other times just with them. It's still more time then when I was working.

Message edited 10/17/2012 11:49:19 AM.