Mother and daughter playing together in child's bedroom

PhotoAlto/Ale Ventura / Getty Images Page 10 of 57

Etiquette Questions, Answered: Tricky Conversations

I'm a Stay-At-Home Mom. How do I Respond to People Who Ask Me When I'm Going Back to Work?

Q. I’m a stay-at-home mom with an infant daughter. Lately people have asked me, “Isn’t it time to put your child in day care and go back to work?” or “Don’t you get bored being home all day?” I find these questions rude. How should I reply?

Laura Kastrup

Vancouver, British Columbia

A. First let me say, what a lovely time for you! I hope you enjoy every minute. I fondly remember when my girls were tiny, and I have to say my only regret is not realizing how fleeting that time would be. Don’t waste it worrying about rude questions. It’s nobody’s business whether you work in the home or out of the home. Furthermore, anyone who passes a negative comment or who appears to be judging you is probably insecure about her own life choices.

The next time someone broaches the topic, face her head-on. Say in a matter-of-fact tone, “I feel fortunate to be able to spend meaningful time with my daughter. I wish every parent could have the same wonderful opportunity.”

—Michelle Slatalla

Next: When Should I Tell A Friend’s Secret?

Skip to Daily Finds slides.

Smiling school teacher supervising children in classroom

A woman intruding in on a phone conversation

Envelope filled with cash and change in a glass jar

Illustration of a woman at sporting event with former in-laws

Woman talking on cell phone with paperwork in hand

Hot Topic

“Who cares if it’s still only spring? We’re already thinking about our first summer swim—and we want our readers to be prepared. So when you’re in and out of the pool, use these surprising tips from...” - Julia Edelstein