To go back to work or stay at home?

Question

So I was always one of those women who couldn't imagine being a SAHM and planned on going back to work. Now that my son is here I don't know if I can leave him with someone else. Daycare for an infant is so expensive that most of my pay check would be going towards child care any way. I sat down with my husband last night and we talked about me staying home. I'm struggling to decide because it will make money very tight. We made enough combined to live very comfortably so it would be a really big adjustment for us. I feel like if I really scrimp and do my best at home it will be the best situation for my son, but I'm not sure if I'm ready to put my career on hold. Has anyone made this transition and how did it work out for you? Was it worth it?

Answer

I became a SAHM after our second baby. I absolutely love it, and appreciate my husband for valuing my role and providing for our family financially. It was a big adjustment though. My husband and I always kept our money separate. Separate income and accounts, and then split our expenses. It's always worked well for us. But quiting my job meant I needed money from my husband. This was the hardest part for me. Really just because of my pride. It was hard for me to ask for money from my husband. We talked through it and now we joke about it. And our family is amazing and I charish the time I get to spend with our kiddos.

Answer

It does help. Thank you!

Answer

I can give you suggestions on helping with financial stuff from a stay at home moms perspective. I'm a nanny but I also help with household management for my family and a lot of things we did for free or very cheap because they had three children. Movies, library, parks, playgrounds. :-)

One thing is it's not just daycare expense it's your gas to and from daycare, and It's also the gas to and from work you will be saving. I know in my case that's hundreds of dollars a month.

You can also spend some time while the child naps using coupons site and making sure to find coupons for your groceries which takes time that most working people don't really have but as a stay at home parent you'd be able to while they nap.

Bulk meals, freeze half. Make up a menu once you see weekly flyer for your grocery store and plan accordingly to sales. See if you can find a trail to a bulk store coupon, buy and stock diapers, wipes, toilet and paper towels, cleaning products and non perishable. This also can save in the long run, just has a higher up front cost.

My boyfriend and I have talked about relocating to his hometown in which case I would be jobless and we have thought about various options on how to make it work. Hope this helps

Answer

My SIL stayed home after their second. Was a money saver on child care. They got rid of their 2nd vehicle, she coupons, and they try to be as frugal as possible. They have seemed to make it work and my niece will be 3 in December. Also helped save too because she was able to exclusively breast feed her so they saved on not having to buy formula when she went back to work. Good luck momma! I always thought the same thing, but j have to go back to work. I'm the one with the health insurance, etc.

Answer

If we could afford it I would stay home

To go back to work or stay at home?

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