No Need for Isolation
When I would talk with co-workers about my true desire to be home with my kids, I usually got looks of disbelief, or even pity, in return. I felt isolated as a Stay-At-Home Mom (SAHM) before I even became one!
And at first, being home was isolating, especially going from the extreme of being in a modern corporate environment to having an in-home daycare with 3 toddlers and 2 babies. There were so many wonderful moments, but I truly wondered those first few weeks and months if I would ever have someone to share a coherent, complete thought with again!
I quickly realized that feeling isolated does not have to be the reality for SAHMs. As much as I could, I began venturing to kid- and adult-friendly spots. Our local library was always one of my first choices. The kids could play, look at books, and hear a story, and I could chat with other SAHMs.
I scheduled playdates with a friend from work who also had kids and 2 days off a week. Our kids got to play with each other and we kept in touch.
I became an avid emailer. Our main living/playing area is also our computer hub, so checking and sending messages is a snap and doesn’t take me away from the kids. I find email so much more doable than trying to have a phone conversation.
And after about 2 years of strictly being home, I dipped my toes back into the work-world, just a bit, and worked part-time in the evening, a few times a week. Without compromising being home with my kids, I got regular (and much needed) adult interaction.
If you’re feeling isolated, one of these ideas may be an answer for you. I’d also recommend checking if the MOM club has a chapter in your area. If not, you can be the first to start one.
The trick to not feeling isolated as a SAHM is simple – don’t let yourself be isolated. Do what you can to stay connected, and if anyone questions your sanity in choosing to stay home - just stare right back at them.
And at first, being home was isolating, especially going from the extreme of being in a modern corporate environment to having an in-home daycare with 3 toddlers and 2 babies. There were so many wonderful moments, but I truly wondered those first few weeks and months if I would ever have someone to share a coherent, complete thought with again!
I quickly realized that feeling isolated does not have to be the reality for SAHMs. As much as I could, I began venturing to kid- and adult-friendly spots. Our local library was always one of my first choices. The kids could play, look at books, and hear a story, and I could chat with other SAHMs.
I scheduled playdates with a friend from work who also had kids and 2 days off a week. Our kids got to play with each other and we kept in touch.
I became an avid emailer. Our main living/playing area is also our computer hub, so checking and sending messages is a snap and doesn’t take me away from the kids. I find email so much more doable than trying to have a phone conversation.
And after about 2 years of strictly being home, I dipped my toes back into the work-world, just a bit, and worked part-time in the evening, a few times a week. Without compromising being home with my kids, I got regular (and much needed) adult interaction.
If you’re feeling isolated, one of these ideas may be an answer for you. I’d also recommend checking if the MOM club has a chapter in your area. If not, you can be the first to start one.
The trick to not feeling isolated as a SAHM is simple – don’t let yourself be isolated. Do what you can to stay connected, and if anyone questions your sanity in choosing to stay home - just stare right back at them.
posted by Beth @ 10:45 PM
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