I have been a teacher for 10 years and truly love my job. I always planned to go back to work after taking 6-8 weeks off to stay home with our baby. But, I had no idea that my feelings would change so much once we brought her home. Between that, and the rising challenges of being a teacher, quitting my job was the best decision for myself and my family.
After a few weeks back home, I realized I couldn’t imagine going back to work yet. When I told my husband that I would like to try and stay home with Baby B, I think he was shocked. In the 10 years that we have known each other, I have never mentioned being a stay at home mom. I always assumed I would be happy to go back to work.
I truly have a passion for teaching and my students, but honestly haven’t even thought about them for over three months. Having a baby really does change your perspective in ways that I never imagined. Also, I if I was in a different profession, I may not feel this way.
With teaching, I give 110% everyday at work and at home to get ready for the next day. It’s not a job where I clock in, work 8 hours, then clock out. I am constantly planning, grading, communicating with parents and students, and a thousand other things for work. If I continued to teach, I don’t feel like I would be able to give my best at work or at home. This was a major factor in our decision for me to quit.
Over the past few years, the teaching profession has also changed a lot. I feel like there is so much more pressure on teachers now than in the past. Being responsible for so many things as a teacher already stretched me so thin. I know many teachers have kids and do a wonderful job as a teacher and a mom, but I don’t think this could be me.
We have waited so long to have a baby and I want to be able to enjoy every minute of it. I love taking time to show her new things and encourage her to reach new milestones. And maybe this is selfish, but I want to be the one to see her roll over for the first time, teacher her how to sit up, and everything else that she will do and learn.
I am determined to make it work.
So far, have been able to find some freelance educational work that I can do from home. It is short term, so we just have to take it month by month and make it work as long as we can.
Our family has been so supportive though this change in our lives. I’m pretty sure we haven’t actually bought diapers, wipes, or formula for Baby B yet! But this just goes to show, we couldn’t do it without our village. We are so grateful for everyone who loves our family and Baby B so much.
I am so thankful for the chance to be able to spend this time with Baby B. She grows and changes everyday and it is amazing. There are some moments when I miss being in the classroom, and miss my teacher friends. One day I may go back, but for now, staying at home is where I am meant to be.
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