The decision to be a stay-at-home parent: Considerations for parents of newborns in India

Having a newborn is an exciting and challenging time for parents, and one decision that some may face is whether to continue working or to become a stay-at-home parent. This decision can be influenced by a variety of factors, including financial considerations, cultural and societal pressures, and personal preferences. In this post, we’ll explore some of the key considerations for parents of newborns in India who are deciding whether to be a stay-at-home parent.

Factors to consider when deciding to be a stay-at-home parent

Financial implications: One of the most significant factors to consider is the financial impact of giving up a career to be a stay-at-home parent. In many cases, this can lead to a significant reduction in household income, which can be a challenging adjustment. It’s important to carefully consider the financial implications of this decision and to plan accordingly.

Emotional and psychological aspects: Becoming a stay-at-home parent can be a significant adjustment, both emotionally and psychologically. It’s important to be prepared for the change in routine and the potential loss of identity that may come with giving up a career. Additionally, it can be challenging to adjust to a new role as the primary caregiver for a child.

Cultural and societal pressures: In many societies, there may be cultural or societal pressures to continue working or to be a stay-at-home parent. It’s important to consider these pressures and to make a decision based on your own values and preferences, rather than on external expectations.

Navigating your relationship with your spouse

The decision to be a stay-at-home parent can have a significant impact on your relationship with your spouse. It’s important to communicate effectively and to work together to ensure that both partners feel heard and supported. Some tips for maintaining a healthy relationship include:

Schedule regular time for one-on-one conversations and date nights, even if it’s just a few minutes each day
Share household and childcare responsibilities fairly, so that one partner doesn’t feel overwhelmed or resentful
Be open and honest about your feelings and concerns, and work together to find solutions that work for both of you
And most importantly, never forget that you are both a team and on the same side. So try not to make the conversation a me vs. you thing. Try to communicate in a way that doesn’t seem like you’re blaming the other person, and don’t hesitate to take the help of a couple’s counsellor to help you get your ideas across effectively.

Checklist for self-care for stay-at-home parents

Being a stay-at-home parent can be a full-time job in itself, but it’s important to take care of yourself in order to be the best parent you can be. Here are some ideas for self-care activities:

Exercise regularly, even if it’s just a short walk or yoga session
Meditate or practice mindfulness to reduce stress and improve mental health
Pursue personal hobbies or interests, even if it’s just for a few minutes each day
Connect with other stay-at-home parents or join a support group to share experiences and receive support

Dealing with judgement from coworkers for quitting your job to stay with your child

While many people may be supportive of your decision to be a stay-at-home parent, there may be others who are critical or judgmental. This can be especially challenging if you’ve worked hard to build a career and are now giving it up to be a stay-at-home parent. Some tips for handling judgement include:

Communicate openly and honestly with coworkers and others about your decision
Stand up for yourself and your decision, and don’t let others make you feel guilty or ashamed
Seek support from friends and family who are supportive of your decision
Remember that being a stay-at-home parent is a valuable and important role, and that your decision is a personal one that should be respected

Navigating family politics as a SAHM

Family members and in-laws may have their own opinions and expectations regarding your decision to be a stay-at-home parent. Navigating family politics can be challenging, but it’s important to set boundaries and communicate your needs and expectations clearly. Some tips for navigating family politics include:

Set clear boundaries and communicate your expectations with family members and in-laws
Be respectful of their opinions and expectations, but make it clear that you are making the decision that is best for you and your family
Seek support from family members and in-laws who are understanding and supportive of your decision
If necessary, limit your time with family members who are critical or unsupportive of your decision
And above all, remember that you know what’s best for your family, and that at the end of the day, nobody except you and your partner get a say on the structure of your family.

Conclusion

The decision to be a stay-at-home parent is a personal one that should be made based on individual circumstances and preferences. While there may be challenges and obstacles to navigate, being a stay-at-home parent can also be a rewarding and fulfilling experience. By carefully considering the factors involved and taking steps to care for yourself and maintain healthy relationships, you can make the decision that is best for you and your family.