9 Tips for Stay-At-Home Moms

When my daughter was born, my husband and I made the decision that I would stay home with her. At first I didn't like the idea, but slowly I came to enjoy it. After staying home for two years, I have come up with some tips for anyone who is thinking about staying home with their child.

1. Enjoy your time with your kid!

Today, not many people can afford to stay home, but if you can, it really is great. You will get to teach your child new things, and watch them grow. It will also allow for a strong bond to form between you and your child.

2. Do not allow people to make you feel bad.

Some people will, without a doubt, judge you for staying home. The best way to handle the judgement is to tune them out. After all, it is your life to live, so you should do what makes you happy!

3. It is okay to ask for help.

Sometimes being home and doing housework can be tiring, especially if there is a lot to do. Never feel bad for asking for some help, regardless if it is from your spouse or your family. People will help you out if you feel overworked; just be sure to ask!

4. Make time for yourself sometimes.

Being cooped up in your house all day can be boring after a while. If you need a break, just ask your spouse to watch your child for a bit. There is nothing wrong with awarding yourself some time "off."

5. Have an occasional date night with your spouse.

This one is very important for your relationship. Going on a date every now and then will reignite your spark with your spouse. It will also give you the opportunity to enjoy yourself outside of the home.

6. Do not become discouraged when it comes to friendships.

When you begin to stay at home more, some friends will be lost. It is unfortunate, but it is true. The friends you used to hang out with may not want to hang out anymore now that you are a mom, but it is alright. You will find out who your true friends are when you have a child, trust me.

7. The house will always seem messy, so don't get discouraged.

No matter how much you clean, you will always feel like there is more you can do. You could scrub the entire house spotless, but there will be more messes. Toddlers especially love to throw toys everywhere, so keeping them picked up all the time will be near impossible.

8. If staying home is not for you, then do not do it!

This one is very important. You will never be happy if you cannot stand to be at home. So if you prefer going to work everyday, that is what you should do. If you stay at home and it makes you miserable, just don't do it.

9. Family connections will either be strengthened or broken, so do not let it get to you.

My bond with some of my family members completed disintegrated, but some of my other bonds grew stronger. For example, my mother and I are no longer close at all, but my father and I are better than ever. It all depends on how they view you being a stay-at-home parent. The main thing to remember is to just do what is best for your own little family, regardless of what other people tell you to do.

Being a stay at home mom may not always be easy, but hopefully these tips will help some people out. Just keep your head up and live your lives to the fullest! Thank you!