Let's start by looking at what you're losing for your retirement. No
401(k) with your employer contributing towards it. No pension,
although those are getting scarce in most jobs anyhow. Less money
available to put towards retirement. You aren't putting money into
Social Security, so your benefits will be lower.

Ouch. Being a stay-at-home mom means you lose a lot for your
retirement. Socially, the stay-at-home mom, as you may already know,
is not as valued by most or by our government as the working mother.
Fortunately, there are steps you can take to prepare for your own
retirement. It means more sacrifices, as you'll have to put more money
aside, but better to provide your own retirement than be a burden.

You will want to consider having your spouse contribute towards a
Spousal IRA. You may want to talk to a professional to determine the
best type of IRA. According to the IRS website, up to $3000 may be
contributed to a spousal IRA in a given year, assuming you are married
and filing a joint return. See http://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p590.pdf
for more information on IRAs.

Of course, it's hard for most families to come up with $3000 a year to
be put towards retirement. Saving while working is relatively easy; it
can come out of the paycheck before you ever see it, so it doesn't
hurt much. You need to figure out a monthly dollar amount you can
contribute, so that it goes throughout the year. Don't hurt your
family doing this, of course, but if you can find a way to get a
little money put aside so you can have a decent retirement, do so.

Those who want only to be stay-at-home moms may resist the notion of
finding a job, whether it be part time or working at home, but it is
another option to keep money going towards your retirement. It assures
you that some money is going toward Social Security, and gives you a
little extra money to put towards your retirement. Once the kids are
in school, a highly flexible job can keep your skills sharp, too.

For others, a home business is an option. You don't have to go the
direct sales route, although it is certainly a popular way to start a
home business with less risk. You can start a website on something you
love, sell crafts you've made… perhaps something you love to do could
be a small home business for you.

You are the only one who can decide which sacrifices you can make to
ensure that you have a financially secure retirement. Take the time
now to think about your future.

Stephanie Foster is the owner of Home with the Kids, a resource that
knows that there's more to staying home with your family than just
business. For more stay at home tips, visit the site at
http://www.homewiththekids.com/ and subscribe to the free newsletter.