Thinking about becoming a stay at home mommy? Quite a few moms agree that although it can be a thankless job, it is also a richly rewarding experience -- one that they wouldn't trade for the world. Discover some of the best-kept secrets to stay-at-home success and then join other moms on the Stay-At-Home Moms message board for more advice and assistance.

1. Feel Satisfied with What You Do

When someone asks me what I do, I tell them I stay home with my children and I'm not in the least ashamed or embarrassed. I have learned that most people who don't think much of stay-at-home moms (SAHM) don't know what's affiliated and just how much a family benefits and appreciates what we do. My children are only young once; I can get a career later. --Parent Souper

Jackie

I tell people that I am a stay at home mommy, and I do get a few weird responses to that! "Oh, so you have no education?" (I have a masters degree and a year into a PhD.), or "No skills, huh?" (I used to write million-dollar grants and train grad school). I am comfortable with my answers, but a number of other people are not. They feel my education is going to waste. I answer those people with "I'm raising my children, and teaching them. What better use of my skills?" --Parent Souper Barb

Stay-at-home motherhood has changed me in so many ways. I find the biggest obstacle is setting the "right" example and becoming the perfect role model. I love my children dearly and I want them to see that mommy has a life too. --Parent Souper Jeanne

2. Keep in Touch with Friends

Having girlfriends is a huge support in being a stay at home mommy, particularly if they might be SAHMs too. You have a friendly outlet for yourself and playtime for the kids at the same time. --Parent Souper Jackie

I don't get nearly as much girl talk as I used to, but I know, as my kids become old and more independent, there will be more time for me. As for keeping working girlfriends close -- live your life, care for your family, and if these old buddies want to keep in touch they will. You can offer a meeting, but don't be amazed when you see fewer and fewer of most working friends. Just remember that the true friendships will last. --Parent Souper Barb

3. Get Organized

Having a routine and making lists keeps me sane! I have 3 calendars -- a simple one (for doctor/dentist appointments, etc.), a school one (PTA meetings, school days off, etc.) and a perpetual birthday/anniversary one. Don't over-schedule the kids. Remember that children need time to just play. --Parent Souper Barb

First of all, the secret is to get rid of stuff! My motto is: If we don't eat it, need it, wear it, or use it, it goes (with sentimental exceptions!). I use the plastic drawer storage to organize smaller-sized toys that would wind up at the bottom of the toy container. (My kids even know which toys go in which drawers.) I also use decorative baskets for mail, my makeup, keys and other small household items. --Parent Souper Jackie

I have a routine and stick to it. Monday is my "pick-up from the weekend" day (like: cleaning bathrooms, sweeping and laundry), Tuesday and Wednesday are our "busy" days (carrying out things out of the house). Thursday is washing laundry day and Friday is dust, mop, clean bathrooms -- "getting ready for the weekend" day. Get a calendar and write things down so you can see what you have to do. I have a purse diary that I take with me. In the event that anyone asks me if we can do something on a certain day, I can look right then and see if we are free to go. --Parent Souper Cindy

4. Get in Touch with Your Creative Side

Finding time for you is so essential. Whether or not you make crafts, or are involved in the PTA, you have to have activities besides housework and children. --Parent Souper Jackie

I have become a "Fix-It-SAHM." I do maintenance, painting, hanging cabinet doors, putting new hardware on furniture, etc. I am constantly on the look out for projects to do for Christmas gifts. I would go crazy if I didn't find tasks to occupy my time and mind. --Parent Souper Jackie

I will be working on a book. It is a kid-friendly book about stay-at-home motherhood from a child's perspective. --Parent Souper Jeanne

Be creative in trying to save money. Make up economic challenges: Preserve for larger items or make up grocery challenges (challenge yourself!). My best money-saving tips are "live simply." Bake from scratch, make simple meals, use coupons, set a budget and stick to it. Forget the silly little perks you had functioning (lattà s out, dinner out, etc.) and take pleasure in your children. Your love and attention is what they need -- not toys and the latest gadgets. --Parent Souper Barb

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