My partner and I fully acknowledge that our family setup is anything but conventional. We live in a tiny space, homeschool our son who faces behavioral challenges, and I — the mom — work outside the home. In our unique household, my husband has taken on the role of a stay-at-home dad, and he excels at it.
As someone driven by connection and the buzz of interaction, I bring a passionate and exuberant energy to the table. In contrast, my husband embodies kindness, patience (most of the time), and an impressive knack for all things outdoors. Sure, our kids might indulge in more packaged snacks while I come home to a bit of chaos, but I take comfort in knowing that they’ve been busy biking, climbing, and exploring nature with their dad.
I felt compelled to write this letter from a place of deep respect for those of you who dedicate yourselves to nurturing the next generation as well as the desire to represent those of us who head out each morning with our breakfast and bags in hand before the little ones wake up.
Dear Stay-at-Home Parent:
Your role is incredibly demanding. It’s a relentless cycle of meeting your children’s needs day in and day out. You’re not just responsible for keeping them fed and relatively clean; many of you are also their educators. And all of this happens under the weighty pressure of living up to those seemingly perfect, Pinterest-worthy parents who never miss an event or milestone.
This is your battleground, and you are the champions. We salute you.
For those of us who leave home at dawn to tackle calls, meetings, or operate machinery, we never want to undermine your exceptional skills. You should wear your “Stay-at-Home Parent” badge with pride.
However, let’s be candid — there are some things we wish you understood. As a mother who works outside the home and as a friend to many working dads, this is a collective sentiment.
So, stay-at-home moms and dads, go pour yourself that cup of coffee you left brewing hours ago, slip into your cozy sweatpants, and settle in. Here are some truths that I hope resonate with you:
- We Miss You.
Genuinely, we miss you during our workdays. While you’re engaged in wiping noses, bandaging scrapes, and hosting tea parties, we’re struggling to stay awake through endless meetings. All we can think about is coming home to your warm smile and those little hands ready to hug us, even if they come with a side of stickiness from who-knows-what we hope you were also able to have a moment to enjoy your day. - We’d Rather Be with You.
Many of us count down to long weekends and vacations, wishing to trade in our work for another round of “Moana” or spontaneous dance parties in the kitchen. Even those who enjoy their jobs would choose you over spreadsheets any day. A simple text or a cute picture from you during the day is what keeps us motivated. - You Look Amazing.
Seriously, forget those outdated notions that you need to look a certain way. You look fantastic, whether in yoga pants or comfy shorts. Who wouldn’t want to be comfortable while chasing after a toddler? The little things, like that Cheerio we found in your hair, are just signs that our kids are well cared for. - You’re Rockstars, and We’re Your Biggest Fans.
There were days when I would hand the baby straight over to my husband as soon as he got home. It felt like all I was doing was feeding and cleaning, and I lost track of my own identity. It’s astounding how some of you manage to juggle everything — from midnight wake-ups to school drop-offs — without skipping a beat. Trust me, CEOs could take notes from your skills. - We Try to Speak Your Language.
We understand how your day has been, filled with challenges that come with parenting. When you share your day with us, we want to hear all about it — the triumphs and the struggles. We’re on your side and want to support you. - We Need You to Speak Our Language Too.
As we transition from our work mindset to home life, it’s not always easy. When you start sharing your day, sometimes we need a moment to adjust. Your feelings are important to us; just remember that we’re shifting gears and might need a second to recalibrate.
We all face those days when we wish for a reset. What carries us through is our ability to lean on each other, to be honest, and to uplift one another amid life’s chaos.
So to all stay-at-home parents, keep doing what you’re doing — you are extraordinary. We are here to support you. And if you can, remember us too, because we miss you and genuinely need you in our lives.
For more insights on family dynamics, check out this resource on artificial insemination and how it can play a role in your journey. Also, you might find some useful information on home insemination kits that can help expand your family. Lastly, for tips on parenting, visit Modern Family Blog as they are an authority on this topic.
In summary, stay-at-home parents, your work is invaluable, and you are appreciated more than you know.