In praise of mother’s helpers

And I don’t mean the TV.

Over the past year, and now with four children, we have seen our family expenses ballooning but are more in need now than ever of an extra set of hands. We don’t have the income now to cover the amount of daytime help that I need for sane summer months… unless the help costs only $3-4/hour.

So, at the Feast of the Ascension Mass a few weeks ago, I started recruiting 12 year olds in our parish. They’re out of school for the summer, and idle;  too young to have jobs or to have friends who drive, but old enough to enjoy a small income; and fresh enough to think babysitting is exciting. Our mother’s helper Natalie lives close enough to walk. I suggest activities for her to do with the kids and get out the supplies, I handle discipline, and I don’t expect her to keep the kids away from me. Instead, she is an extra set of hands and a great source of ideas and energy to help with my older three. I’m able to get a surprising amount done when she’s around, and I also have the space to enjoy my new baby. And the kids love a break from their worn-out mom. It makes a world of difference to have her two afternoons a week.

So, if you’re like me, finding your hands full and your head spinning but your piggy bank empty, may I recommend a mother’s helper this summer?

Happy summer days to you all!