A Cuban mother living in Cape Coral, Florida, has created a stir on TikTok by sharing a video reflecting on her decision to stay home to care for her younger child instead of working outside. Her message, filled with honesty and emotion, has resonated with many mothers facing similar dilemmas.
In the video, the mother who identifies herself as @yerina1989 explained that she called several childcare centers in the area, and the results left her astonished. One of the daycares informed her that they were not accepting any more children due to lack of capacity, while another quoted her a price of 210 dollars per week, which she considers to be high. "Can you imagine, 210 a week," she said incredulously.
The mother also expressed that she made a conscious decision to fully enjoy the early years of her youngest child. "I said from the beginning that I wanted to enjoy my last baby because I won't have any more. I wanted to enjoy him 100 percent and I don't regret it. It's the best thing I have ever done in my life," she commented.
In her testimony, she expressed her gratitude for the unwavering support of her husband, who backs her decision to stay at home. "Thanks to God and my husband, who has no issue with me being at home. He does his part, and I do mine," she said. Additionally, she emphasized that working at home is no less demanding than a formal job. "Moms who stay at home work so hard. It’s night, and we continue to work. But we do it happily," she stated.
However, the mother admitted that sometimes she wonders how long she can stay home without working. "I've been out of work for three years, and hearing those prices, it seems better for me to stay in the little house quietly until the child starts school. Time flies, and when he starts school, I will start working," she explained.
The video has generated thousands of comments from other mothers sharing their experiences and opinions on the costs of childcare and the challenges of balancing work and family life. "Tell me, moms, how many of you are in my situation?" she concluded her reflection, inviting other women to share their stories.
This story has highlighted not only the high costs of childcare in the United States but also the sacrifice and commitment of many mothers who choose to prioritize home upbringing, emphasizing that domestic work and motherhood are essential roles, albeit often undervalued.
Some highlighted comments from other mothers:
"I had such a hard time with my first child and it was really expensive. It's not worth going out to look for money if it all goes to daycare, especially when you can expose them to unpleasant things."; "Let’s say: daycare $210 + $90 after care. If you work, you earn more than $300 a week, even at McDonald's, but if you don't work, you save money and take care of your child yourself."; "I pay $130 at Lehigh."; "That's how I am. I've been out of work for three years and, since there are no jobs available during daycare hours and the prices are so high, I think I will start working when my son enters the VPK program."; "Here in Riverview it’s $315 a week. My granddaughter will go when she starts VPK. She turns three in February. The costs are unsustainable." or "In Houston it's $250 a week."
Frequently Asked Questions about Childcare Costs and Life in Florida
Why do some mothers in Florida choose to stay home instead of working?
Many mothers in Florida, like the Cuban mother from Cape Coral, prefer to stay at home due to the high costs of childcare and the opportunity to enjoy the early years of their children's lives. They often receive support from their partners and believe that work at home is equally demanding as a job outside the home.
How do the costs of living compare in different parts of Florida?
The cost of living in Florida varies significantly. Areas like Miami are known for their high housing costs, while others like Port Charlotte may offer more affordable options. These differences influence the moving decisions of many residents, who seek a balance between rent costs and job opportunities.
What challenges do Cubans in the United States face in balancing work and family life?
Cuban Americans face challenges such as high childcare costs and the cost of living, which often compel them to prioritize family time over going to work. The struggle to balance work and family responsibilities is a common theme, especially in communities with high living expenses.
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