Dogs

Finding time for basic tasks such as grocery shopping can be challenging as a working mom.
When you have a child, you eventually may have to decide whether you will go back to work. Deciding whether to be a working mother or a stay-at-home mother requires looking at your financial situation. However, it also involves investigating other factors such as your emotional state and the logistics of providing child care. There is no right or wrong, since all mothers have different circumstances, personalities and skills, but to move forward in either direction, you should discuss your options with your partner or supportive friends and family.
Difficulty:
Moderately Easy
Instructions
1.
o 1
Think about the physical needs of you and your children. For example, if you choose to breastfeed, it can be easier to stay at home since your child always will have food on demand. Care for special needs children such as those with autism is typically much more expensive, and it can be harder to find a daycare facility equipped to meet your child's needs. You may find that it is more cost-effective and emotionally easier on your child to care for her yourself.
o 2
Examine your budget. If you stay home, you'll have to rely just on your partner's income, or income from friends and family. Staying at home may not be a good idea if you will struggle just to make ends meet. If you are on the edge of having a workable income, ask yourself whether you could work just a few hours from home instead of going back to a traditional job. For example, you may be able to teach piano or sell items you craft. Generally, families with higher incomes have both parents working. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, as of 2010, families with incomes between $10,000 and $25,000 have the highest percentage -- up to 43 percent -- of stay-at-home mothers. By the time income reaches $75,000 to $99,999, only 14 percent of mothers stay home with their kids.
o 3
Tally the cost of daycare. You may...