Stay-At-Home Mom to Single Mom

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For the last decade I’ve been a stay-at-home mom. I have a college degree and had worked a full time job since I was 16-years-old, before children. When my first child came along, my husband and I decided that it was best for me to be a stay-at-home mom. I loved being at home with my child and when the second child came along, it was an easy choice.

We didn’t have to worry about finding the perfect nanny or daycare. We moved a few times due to my husband’s job, but didn’t have to deal with me having a job to leave. I was thankful to be able to see my children grow up and learn. As they grew up and started school, I was able to volunteer with their classes, go on field trips, and pick them up from school.

Unfortunately, relationships don’t always work out and parents separate. This is difficult for any parents, but as a stay-at-home mom, I’m finding it especially challenging. I’ve had part time jobs and volunteer positions, so my resume isn’t completely void. However, it is challenging to navigate finding a job, childcare, while becoming independent again.

How did you settle into life after becoming a single mom? What challenges did you deal with during the early part of a separation with your partner?