(Yes, Even When They’re “Just Home” All Day)
It’s funny how the phrase “stay-at-home parent” sounds so… restful.
Like it’s a slow, gentle life of lullabies, snacks, and cuddles.
But if you’ve ever been that parent or truly seen them you know the truth:
It’s anything but restful.
From soothing a teething baby to helping a middle schooler with math homework, to navigating teenage moods and managing four different schedules at once it’s a full-time job with no office, no lunch break, and no HR to vent to.
So here’s your gentle reminder:
Ask the stay-at-home parent how their day was too.
Because while the world often checks in with the working parent asks about meetings, deadlines, and bosses, we tend to overlook the one who’s juggling chaos at home.
They’re Managing a Whole Universe
One moment they’re warming a bottle, the next they’re breaking up a sibling argument, driving to soccer practice, scheduling doctor appointments, folding the third load of laundry, and trying to remember if anyone actually ate a vegetable today.
They’re on call all day and night, with little time to sit, let alone talk.
And through it all, they’re managing emotions: from toddlers to teens (and sometimes their own too). They’re the ones who hear the meltdowns, field the questions, wipe the tears, and carry the mental load for everyone in the house.
Stay-at-Home Doesn’t Mean Less Exhausted
Let’s be real: this role can feel isolating. There’s no coffee break chat, no coworker to say “you’re doing great,” and often, no moment to catch a breath, especially when there are multiple kids in different seasons of life.
That’s why a simple check-in, “How was your day?”, can feel like a lifeline.
It says:
- “I see you.”
- “I know you’re working hard.”
- “Your day matters too.”
Little Check-Ins Matter More Than You Think
So, shoot a text during your lunch break: “How’s it going today?”
Pause before jumping into the evening rush: “Tell me one good thing and one hard thing from today.”
Let them talk. Let them vent. Let them feel heard.
Because their day didn’t include a board meeting but it probably involved navigating 10 emotional ones at home.
Bottom Line: They’re Doing Sacred Work
Raising children isn’t just a task list, it’s soul work.
It’s shaping hearts, guiding minds, and pouring out love in unseen ways.
Whether they’re rocking a baby, talking through teenage angst, or helping a child find their voice, they’re building something that lasts.
So don’t forget to check in.
Don’t just ask out of habit. Ask because they matter.
Their work matters.
Their voice matters.
They matter.
Need some encouragement? Read my thoughts on ‘The Power of Reading the Bible‘.
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