Most working moms agree that they work to meet the needs of their families. Research shows that they might be working for either to gain financial security, health benefits or for other reasons. But even those of them who love their jobs sometimes struggle to find the balance between work and life. And, yes, they sometimes feel guilty about the time they spend away from their children. Despite all these facts, working mothers do play a pivotal role in building up good values in their children and are bringing about positive impact on their children in day-to-day life.
POSITIVE IMPACTS:
Responsibility
For starters, they are teaching their kids responsibility. In their own families, they talk about work in a positive way and their children think having a job is really cool. Children are often seen asking if they can accompany their working moms to their work. Kids learn responsibility outside the home as well as inside the home. Social psychologist Dr. Susan Newman, has done an extensive research on the subject of parenting and family issues. In her recent article she suggested, “Being a working mother is an opportunity to give children more responsibility to help with chores, to monitor their own schoolwork and activities, in essence to be more responsible for themselves.”
Financial Savvy
We work to make money, right? Even at a young age, kids make the connection between work and money; and money and having stuff. Dr. Newman says, “The earning power allows you to give your child necessities as well as ‘extras,’ and is a lesson in what hard work can accomplish.”
"They learn to be conscious about the value of money and conservative about their requests, as well as appreciative and grateful for what they have," says Ms. Elayna Fernandez (a single mother, author and a speaker at local university).
Role Model
Dr. Newman’s research suggested, “As a working mother you are a role model for your children, especially for daughters. Mom working often inspires daughters to work harder and in some instances reflects the possibilities for women today.”
India’s top business woman, Ms. Chandra Koccher adds, “As a professional woman, my children are exposed to a different side of mommy when I'm dressed up and presenting myself to the world as a business woman and business owner. Particularly for my young daughter, the impact is great because she sees a strong, confident role model.”
DRAWBACKS:
Are there drawbacks to working outside of the home for a working mom? Yes/ may be. But does it actually harm your kids?
A renowned Pediatrician, Dr. Abdul Ghaffar Billoo states that there’s no evidence supporting that idea. Dr. Billo says, “The facts are that a child’s development is influenced more by the emotional health of the family, and the availability of appropriate child care. Children who receive lots of love and attention will thrive regardless of whether the mother works outside the home. “
What are your opinions on the impact a working mom has on her children and family? Leave the comment below on the blog to let us have your feedback.
