Should I Become a Stay-At-Home Dad?

The decision to become a stay-at-home dad is not one that can be made lightly. It takes some time to process all the consequences of this one seemingly simple question. And it's not a question that should be made alone. There are many reasons one might start down this path. Is day-care too expensive? Are your children missing out on your company? One would think that spending more time with the family is a pro that would make this decision an open and shut case. If that's what you think then you are very much mistaken.

Should the idea pop into your head about becoming a stay-at-home dad the first step is to speak with the people who will be most affected by it: your wife and children. Undoubtedly, your children will jump for joy at the notion of their dad being with them 24-7 but this conversation should be honest and informative. Cutting back on things once taken for granted should be pointed out. Going to the movies or eating out will be cut back dramatically. Children are greedy and may not understand but their point of view should not be dismissed entirely.

The most important person whose opinion will tip the scales of reason should be your wife. She may see complications to your decision that you have overlooked. Can the bills be paid with one income? What exactly will you have to give up? Dinners and movies are nothing in the grand scheme of things but paying for gasoline, car and home repairs or inspection stickers could be easily overlooked and could catch up to you at a time when funds are low.

Making a list of pros and cons will give you a visual aid and help you weigh your options, Family time is important but having a roof over their heads, paying important bills like electricity and gas or putting food on the table is nothing to sneeze at. Difficult times are ahead in this weak economy. Leaving the workforce could be as simple as opening a door and driving home but the ugly reality is that once you've left coming back could be an insurmountable task and perhaps a deal breaker.