Stay at home moms: How to earn from home

Almost all new moms struggle with the decision on whether or not to go back to work. With rising prices, increasing debt loads and the economy still in recovery, staying at home often seems impossible. There are however, a few ways to make money and not have to go into the office everyday. These are some real options for real women.

1. Drive a School Bus

If you are a good driver with a clean record, love kids and are good with directions this is a terrific job for you. Most school boards in the United States, and all of them in Canada allow you to bring your infant to preschool aged children on the runs with you. Check when you apply. The bus company pays for the training and the licence upgrade and it takes about two weeks of your time. Check out First Student, the largest school bus company for more information. For a step by step guide on how to become a school bus driver in Canada, check out "How to Become A School Bus Driver In Canada."

Cost to get started: Babysitter for the two week training
Expect to make: $200-$400/week

2. Crafts

If you have a terrific talent for knitting, crocheting, pottery or any other craft you might want to consider signing up for an Etsy store. This is an on-line craft fair where you can show off your goods or bid to create requested items.

Cost to get started: $1 for the Etsy-store sign up, materials
Expect to make: $20-$100 per item

3. Buying and Selling

If you love to shop garage sales you can turn this into some extra money. Look specifically for children's items, bicycles, small tables. Clean them up, paint them if necessary and then put them up for sale for a profit on Craigslist or Kijiji.

Cost to get started: just a few dollars for your garage sale finds
Expect to make: up to $100 per week if you are diligent

4. Writing

If you have a way with words you should consider joining a writing site such as Helium or Associated Content. Generally, these sites pay better the more articles you write and it may take you a few months to write enough articles to make more than just pennies, but if you stick with it, you can make a nice income.

Cost to get started: $0
Expect to make: $5 - $300/month

5. Catalogue Sales

If you have a very wide social circle you may want to look into selling Avon, Tupperware or Regal. You just have to control your own urges to purchase their items.

Cost to get started: $0 - $10
Expect to make: $20-200/month

6. Tailoring/Alterations

If you have a way with a thread and needle there is money to be made in simple alterations. Hemming, taking in, or letting out, it is a terrific way to bring in some extra income. Work with a local store or dry-cleaner. Put on-line ads up on Craigslist or Kijiji. Put paper ads up at local Laundromats.

Cost to get started: $0 if you already have the supplies.
Expect to make: $50-200/week depending on how well you advertise

7. Babysitting

If a houseful of children is music to your ears and you have a child-care background, babysitting one or two children during the working day might be a way for you to bring in some extra money. Check into your local child-care regulations for what is required in your area.

Cost to get started: varies
Expect to make: $80-$200/child/week

8. Photography

Are you a terrific amateur photographer without the equipment or money to photograph weddings or to take professional portraits? You can still offer some unique photographic services. Put up an on-line or newspaper ad to photograph a marriage proposal, a child's birth, a graduation or a birthday party. You will be surprised at how many people will jump at the chance to have these special events photographed well.

Cost to get started: $0 if you already have a good digital camera
Expect to make: $25/hour

This list is by no means complete, there are dozens of ways to make an income and continue to be a stay-at-home-mom. Make a list of what you can offer, from both a talent and time point of view, look at these suggestions and stretch your mind to find something that will work for you. Be creative, be diligent and be ready to bank your earnings.