Reflections on Motherhood and Family Dynamics

Phyllis Schlafly once said, “Feminism has changed the way women think, and it has changed the way men think. But the problem is, feminism hasn’t changed the way babies behave at all.” I feel lucky that my mother emphasized putting the baby first. Back in the 1960s and 1970s, a new ideology emerged suggesting that women didn’t need or want men or children. In contrast, Phyllis lived a life focused on her husband and kids, challenging the notion that single women are inherently happier.

It’s refreshing to see her prioritize the baby in the conversation. As her child, I certainly benefited from that focus.

The current decline in birth rates isn’t solely a result of insufficient government funding. It’s driven by a culture where young women often prioritize careers, viewing men as secondary. Presently, about 40% of births in the U.S. occur outside of marriage, which is something that can negatively impact children. It’s been shown that those raised by married parents generally fare better academically, financially, and emotionally.

More Gen Z women are expressing disinterest in having children. As a young mother, I can’t help but think this mindset may overlook some important aspects.

Family units should be celebrated rather than penalized by inadequate tax systems. Mothers should ideally have the opportunity to raise their children without facing economic pressure to utilize institutional daycares. It’s vital that there’s no financial penalty for choosing to nurture one’s own children.

For my mother, her babies were always the priority. She genuinely enjoyed engaging with babies she encountered in public. Nowadays, so much of our direct communication has diminished in favor of digital interactions, leading to fewer words being spoken daily. Texting just doesn’t compare to genuine conversation. Babies, especially, thrive on the rich sounds and intonations of their mothers’ voices, something that institutional settings likely can’t replicate.

Phyllis Schlafly recognized the pitfalls of feminist ideology when it comes to motherhood. To honor mothers like her, she initiated the Housewife of the Year Award. She often posed the question, “Would you rather be in an office listening to your boss, or managing your household?” Phyllis rejected the term “working mother,” insisting that all mothers are constantly working.

The idea of needing to pay for childcare echoes a misunderstanding of child-rearing responsibilities. Young children really crave and benefit from parental care, not from a substitute system. Government welfare can inadvertently encourage mothers to rely on state assistance rather than family support. Subsidized daycare often diminishes personal childcare roles in the home and can weaken family ties. There’s an ongoing debate about whether encouraging mothers to leave their infants in state employment is a wise move. Most mothers would prefer jobs that allow them more flexibility or the chance to work from home to focus on their families.

At Eagle Forum, we advocate for virtue in both public and private spheres. Taxpayer money should be spent thoughtfully, allowing families more control over their lives. If Congress genuinely wishes to aid families, increasing the dependent tax exemption would directly benefit them without relying on government intervention.

Here’s a look at who doesn’t benefit from taxpayer-funded childcare:

• Child: Children want their mother’s care, which is invaluable. Daycare may cost a lot, but it can’t replace that maternal bond.
• Mother: No one is more invested in a child’s well-being than a mother. Caregivers can’t offer the same level of emotional investment.
• Childcare worker: Their wages often remain low. More daycare options don’t automatically mean better pay.
• Taxpayer: When government funds are involved, prices tend to climb, as seen with rising college and healthcare costs.
• Housewives: Those who choose to stay home and care for their children might miss out on subsidies, which can be disheartening.

However, there are some beneficiaries of taxpayer-funded childcare:

• Child care bureaucracy: With increased government funding, administrative costs tend to rise, often overshadowing the workers.
• Politicians: They can appear benevolent by distributing funds.

Ultimately, there’s no role more vital than that of a mother. We honor all mothers who embrace this essential work.