I know there’s a tendency, maybe especially on CC, to see being a SAHM as sad, or a waste of an education. I would say that there may be a lot more going on behind the scenes of communities than people realize. If everyone has a high level, high power, full time+ job, then who is doing the things that make the community an especially good place for a child, or a welcoming place for those who are disadvantaged? Stay at home parents (or parents who have less demanding or part time jobs) are often the ones hosting the neighborhood kids, coaching sports, leading scouts, teaching religion, and being mentors. They are running the community garden, summer theater/art, and the PTA. I know people who volunteer as tutors and translators, and people who set up scholarships so that all kids can participate in activities. Parents with time run the food pantry/personal care pantry, and distribute free school supplies, swap baby items and sports gear, and provide guidance to new immigrants. And then there’s local politics, the school board, boards of non-profits, etc.
Many of the women (or men) who “stay at home”, or who do not have high earning jobs, are likely very successful at making their communities happier, healthier places.