I want to be there

@aconner (218)
United States
November 23, 2009 10:26am CST
I gave birth to my first son 4 weeks ago and I've got 2 more weeks before I go back to work. It's crazy how fast this time has flown by. I thought that I would be bored out of my mind during my 6 week maternity leave but I've honestly loved every minute of it. Being home with my son and watching how much he grows has been amazing. I also love being at home when my husband gets home from work. It's not possible for me to quit my job. My husband may end up quitting his job to stay at home with our son and get a part time job. What are your opinions on stay at home dads?
2 responses
@wallacb3 (88)
• United States
24 Nov 09
I think that any parent who wants to stay at home for their child should try to do so. The first 5 years are the most important for a child's development and bonding experience. I am also coming off maternity leave with a newborn son. I thoroughly encourage you and your husband to stay strong while he tries the home experience. It will be hard on his psyche, but if he can commit it will make both of your days easier. You won't be so stressed at work, and you won't have to worry about daycare. Plus, your son will be able to bond with his daddy. Try not to fret about the housekeeping for the first couple of weeks. It may take some time for them to get into a schedule. A hint: Use checklists or to-do lists for the day, he might find it easier when he starts to get wary to have something to refer to. Also, try to plan a lunch or dinner or two during the week for yourselves during baby's naptime or after bedtime. It will help you guys relax and bond...couple downtime you will need while you switch roles. GOOD LUCK!!!
@aconner (218)
• United States
24 Nov 09
Wow, your comment is so helpful! I will definitely not worry too much about the housework, especially the first couple of weeks. I know how it is being at home for 4 weeks and there are still days that I don't do a single thing other than spend time with my son when he's awake and sleep while he sleeps. I'm just worried about the basics, dishes, laundry, vacuuming, trash and just general picking up here and there. As far as deep cleaning goes, I don't expect him to do all of that. I think a checklist will help him, I just hope he doesn't look at it as me giving him chores, he tends to think that when I make lists for him. He takes it as if I think he can't handle it without the list... heck, I couldn't handle it without a list.
@bounce58 (17387)
• Canada
23 Nov 09
Although I have what I consider as a technical job. And that I have come to appreciate it. I would still love to be a stay at home dad. I like driving my kids to school, picking them up, and driving them to their after-school activities. I also like doing DIY jobs at home. I figure, I would have tons of time to do this whne the kids are at school. Unfortunately, I haven't won the sweepstakes yet, so I still have to work.
@aconner (218)
• United States
23 Nov 09
That's awesome that you enjoy doing those things. I sure do wish we could win the sweepstakes, don't you? My husband is excited about staying home with our son, I just hope he sticks to his word and does some of the chores around the house while he's home all day. That's my biggest worry. LOL