I am a stay at home mom to an extent. I stay home during the day while my hubby is at work (Air Force) and then when he gets home, I coach my oldest daughter's soccer team and after that, I have my yoga class that I instruct, which only lasts an hour.
I think if you can financially swing it, staying home is best. Financially, we are more than able to do it and I do not want my little ones raised by strangers. I do have a degree and in a few years, when all my kids are in school full time, I will put it to use but right now I am a mom and I love being able to be with my kids all the time.
I don't think there's anything wrong with mothers that work, either. Sometimes, it takes two incomes to support the family. Sometimes a mom plays both roles and there is no other option than to work. And then there are some women who just need a break from the kids for awhile and work part time.
Just my personal preference....
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~ Any man can be a father, but it takes someone special to be a dad. ~