We often talk about balance. About managing it all. But how often do we stop to ask our kids what they think about our work? In this special episode of The CPA MOMS Podcast, Nicole Kehl did exactly that, bringing her two sons and their friends into the conversation. The result? A funny, emotional, and eye-opening look at how our children experience life with a working mom.
Whether you’re working from home or commuting to the office, this conversation reminds us that our choices ripple out into our families in ways we don’t always see.
How Kids Really See Work
When asked what their moms do for work, the kids had a range of answers. Some could confidently say “she’s a CPA” or “she works at an office.” Others focused on the emotional distance they feel. “I don’t get to see her much.” One child proudly shared that he gets to ask his mom homeschool questions while she works at home. Another talked about visiting her office and seeing her in action.
To them, work isn’t just a title or job. It’s how present we are. How available we feel. It’s whether they see us stressed or smiling. Working moms aren’t just professionals to them. We’re a presence that sets the tone at home.
The Best and Hardest Parts
There were heartfelt answers, and some heartbreaking ones.
The best parts? Getting to spend time with mom, helping her shred papers, watching movies, playing games, or simply being around her when she’s not working. One child loved going to Elk Fest, where his mom’s firm supports local events. Another mentioned cuddles during bedtime and helping organize drawers. Not glamorous, but deeply personal and memorable.
The hardest parts? Missing her. Feeling like she’s there physically, but not always mentally. Seeing her on the phone. Wanting her attention but knowing she’s on a call again. One child summed it up: “She’s right there… but she can’t play.”
It’s clear that being home doesn’t automatically mean being available, and being away doesn’t mean you’re not present when it counts. What matters is intentional time, however short or small.
What They’ve Learned by Watching You
Surprisingly, the kids had a lot to say about what they’ve learned from their moms’ work. From cooking and organizing to noticing how hard their moms hustle, even shredding piles of paper, they’re paying attention.
One child noted he’s watched his mom juggle client calls and chores. Another shared that he’s learned to be more independent, making his own sandwiches and helping out at home.
This is a reminder. Even when it feels like we’re failing, our kids are learning resilience, time management, and responsibility by watching us.
Their Advice to Moms? “Go Faster!”
When asked what advice they’d give to working moms, the answers were adorable and brutally honest. “Hurry up.” “Go faster.” “Get done quicker so we can play.”
They weren’t asking for less ambition. They were asking for more connection.
It wasn’t about guilt. It was about presence. For them, a “perfect day” didn’t include a full calendar. It included board games, shopping trips, cuddles, and laughter.
What Makes Them Proud
In one of the final questions, the kids were asked what makes them proud of their moms. Their answers said it all:
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“Everything she does.”
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“Being able to juggle work and house stuff.”
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“Just being with us.”
As working moms, we can be so focused on what’s not getting done that we forget how much we’re doing right. In their eyes, we’re already succeeding, even on the days we don’t feel like it.
If you ever wonder whether you’re doing enough, you are. If you ever doubt whether your kids notice, they do. And if you ever feel alone in the juggle, you’re not.
Join a community of women who get it at https://cpamoms.com/start.