Popular Qs
and our expert-backed answers
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How do I make money as a stay at home mom?
There are several flexible and part-time opportunities that can help stay at home moms earn an income while balancing childcare responsibilities. Some of the best options include becoming a virtual assistant, freelance writer, or online tutor. You might also consider roles like customer service representative, data entry specialist, or even turning a passion for pets into income by offering dog walking services. Each of these jobs offers flexibility, making it possible to work around your family’s schedule.
To explore more job ideas and get expert advice on balancing work and family, read the full article: How to Make Money & Earn an Income as a Stay at Home Mom.
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What is a stay at home mom & how do we define it?
A stay at home mom (SAHM) is traditionally defined as a mother who cares for her children and household without working outside the home for pay. However, this term can feel overly simplistic and outdated, as it fails to capture the full scope of responsibilities and activities that modern stay at home moms take on. Many SAHMs are not just caregivers—they also manage their households, pursue personal passions, volunteer, and even take on flexible or part-time work.
For a deeper look into why the term “stay at home mom” may not do justice to the complexity of full-time caregiving, and to explore alternatives, check out the full article: Can We Replace the Term “Stay At Home Mom” Already?
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How do I list stay at home mom & career breaks on my resume?
Listing “stay at home mom” on your resume can feel tricky, but focusing on your skills and achievements rather than your time away from paid work is key. A skills-based resume, which highlights your qualifications and accomplishments, allows you to showcase the value you bring to a role without making your career break the focal point. For example, you can emphasize skills like project management, communication, and organizational abilities that you developed while managing your household and family.
To learn how to create a resume that puts your strengths front and center, check out the full article: How to Write a Resume That Won’t Emphasize Your Career Break.
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How do I set a stay at home mom schedule?
For stay at home moms, creating a daily schedule is an opportunity to build in time for rest, creativity, and personal goals. To do this, time management experts recommend starting by designing your ideal week, blocking time for key activities like school drop-offs, meals, and naps, and then claiming stretches of time just for you. You can also create a play schedule for your kids, rotating activities to keep things fresh and reduce decision fatigue.
For a comprehensive guide on creating a schedule that works for you and your family, check out the full article: The Best Stay-at-Home Mom Schedule, According to Time Management Coaches.
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What is a default parent & how do you cope if you are one?
The default parent is the parent primarily responsible for all things child-related, from organizing schedules to handling doctor’s appointments. This role often falls on mothers due to societal expectations, leaving them feeling overwhelmed and exhausted. Being the default parent can even lead to burnout, so it’s important to communicate with your partner about balancing the load at home.
For tips on how to cope with the challenges of being the default parent check out the full article: How to Deal With the Exhaustion of Being the Default Parent.
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How do I quit my job after maternity leave?
Quitting your job after maternity leave can feel daunting, but many moms have eased the transition by planning ahead and researching their company’s policies. Some moms choose to give notice during leave, while others return briefly before resigning. Either way, focus on what’s best for you and your family, and don’t feel guilty about taking the leave you’ve earned.
For more advice from moms who’ve done it, check out the full article: How To Quit Your Job After Maternity Leave, According to Moms Who’ve Done It.
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What are the expectations from your partner if you’re a stay-at-home mom & how do you cope with resentment?
While every partnership is different, many stay-at-home moms are saddled with the bulk of household tasks, which can lead to feelings of resentment. But it doesn't have to be this way. One relationship therapist says it’s essential to communicate with your partner about dividing responsibilities more equitably. Start by discussing your unmet needs and expressing how the current arrangement is affecting you.
For more insights on managing expectations and coping with resentment in marriage, check out the full article: Managing Resentment in Marriage: How Much Work Should a Stay-at-Home Mom Be Expected to Do?
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How do I go part-time after maternity leave?
Transitioning to part-time work after maternity leave can help you find a better balance between your career and family. Start by having honest conversations with your employer about your needs and setting boundaries that allow you to be fully present both at work and at home. Be prepared to adjust your work expectations and embrace flexibility. It’s also essential to shake off self-doubt—your decision to prioritize time with your child is valuable.
For more tips and insights from moms who made the switch, read the full article: I Wasn’t Ready To Return to Work After Maternity Leave, So I Went Part-Time.
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How do I navigate divorce as a stay-at-home mom?
Going through a divorce as a stay at home mom can be a daunting experience, but knowing how to prepare for your split can make all the difference. Financially, it’s important to build independence before separating by saving what you can and paying bills in advance. After the separation, find emotional support through groups or therapy. Taking steps to re-enter the workforce, even in a lower-stress role, can rebuild your confidence. Remember, while it’s a difficult journey, it’s possible to not only survive but thrive after divorce.
For more advice on managing divorce as a stay-at-home mom, check out the full article: How I Navigated Divorce as a Sta at Home Mom.
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What do I need to know about stay-at-home mom depression?
Stay at home mom depression is a serious mental health condition that can affect primary caregivers. Feelings of isolation, guilt, and hopelessness are common symptoms. Depression can also show up as changes in sleep, feeling overwhelmed, or not asking for help. If you’re noticing these signs interfering with your daily life, it’s important to reach out for support. Therapy and medication are effective treatments, and seeking help is a crucial first step toward recovery.
For more expert advice and resources, read the full article: What You Need to Know About Stay at Home Mom Depression.
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How can I be financially independent as a stay at home mom?
The work you do as a stay at home mom is essential and has immense value. Your labor at home is what allows your partner to work outside the home and earn an income. As a stay at home mom, you deserve financial freedom and security and it all starts by separating your income from your worth. Next review your family’s budget with your partner, adjusting spending, saving, and investing equitably. Consider long-term goals like retirement and college, and consider options like a spousal IRA to power your savings. Staying involved in family finances is crucial, even if you’re not earning an income.
For more expert tips on achieving financial freedom as a stay at home mom, check out the full article: 5 Expert Tips for Achieving Financial Freedom as a Stay at Home Mom.
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How do I balance part-time work & being a stay at home mom?
Balancing part-time work with stay-at-home motherhood can feel overwhelming, but the right tools and strategies make all the difference. Start by setting clear priorities, tracking your time, and using scheduling tools like Gmail or task trackers to help manage both work and family duties.
For more real-life tips and tools to achieve better balance, read the full article: 11 Tips & Tools To Balance Part-Time Work With Motherhood.
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How do I job search after a career break for motherhood?
Job searching after a career break for motherhood can feel intimidating, but breaking the process into small, manageable steps can help. Start by evaluating your strengths and priorities, researching roles and companies that align with your skills, and networking with professionals in your field of interest. Building relationships is key—85-90% of jobs are landed through networking—so don’t hesitate to reach out for advice and connections.
For a detailed step-by-step guide to re-entering the workforce, check out the full article: How to Job Search After a Career Pause.
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