In a Redbook Magazine article called
10 Things Never to Say to a Working Mom, mom bloggers sounded off on the worst things to say to a career woman with kids. Here's that list:
1. It must be hard missing all those special moments every day.
2. I suppose it's smart that you're working. You know, in case your husband leaves you some day.
3. I'm surprised you went back to work. Your husband seems so successful.
4. It's cute when they call your nanny "Mama."
5. I just love my kids too much to leave them during the day.
6. Did you see Dateline? The one with the hidden camera in the day care?
7. I could never let someone else raise my children. But that's just me!
8. I hated my mom because she was never home after school like everyone else's mom.
9. You must feel so guilty.
10. I wish I were as laid-back as you and could just let the housework go.
I thought this was hilarious and oh, so very true!
So, I'm wondering, working moms in and outside the home, salaried or non-salaried, what would you add to this list? What offenses have you had directed at you or have you heard directed at others that should JUST NOT BE SAID?
P.S. Save your thoughts on What NOT to say to a SAHM for next Tuesday...
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Comments (5)
I thought #2 was hilarious. People say the dumbest things.
I have said #7 but in response to why *I* am not working. Not in judgement of someone who does. We all do what we have to do, and we should all try to display more grace and kindness in general.
i think it is hard to explain a different version of parenting in a non-threatening way, know what i mean? most of those sounds like the other person is trying to instigate something, but sometimes an innocent remark could sound mean. like when a working parent says, "i wish i could afford to stay at home with my children." i dunno. don't be offensive, but don't be overly defensive, either.
My personal favorite came from a non-mom when she found out I *only* work part time (which, I'm in ministry at church. Part time is full time, full time is time and a half, that's just the way it works, I am just lucky enough to work many of my hours from home or with my kids in tow). She said, "Yeah, but other than working you're just a mom, right?" Like our kids are a 9-5 job as well. *palmforehead*.
I can't imagine hearing those if I were a working mom. I have said #7 but not to a working mother.
These things shouldn't even be thought. People can be so condescending.