Getting Back into the Job Market

Answer truthfully. Don't lie like others mentioned. I had the exact situation and I wrote the following....

EXPERIENCE
Home School Teacher
*Full responsibility for educating 3 children.
*Conducted daily classes, all subjects. Children now fully integrated into charter schools.

If people don't want to hire you because you took the higher road and not only were a full time mom, but home schooled them - then the hell with them. They don't get it, and never will. Don't work for people that try to minimize the huge job you had. Unfortunately 10% of our population is unemployed because of Obama. So it will be difficult trying to get a job - so you may have to lower your expectations on the type of job. Many people with college degrees are now not getting jobs in their field but minimum wage paying jobs anywhere they can get one. If you are desperate for a job, take any job that hires you, get a little experience that you can put on a newer resume and if you dislike that job, look again elsewhere for something more appealing.

Good luck on your search.

I would note you were raising children, but skip mentioning the homeschooling. People are very opinionated on that topic and you don't want to be ruled out because a hiring manager doesn't believe in homeschooling.

"Child-rearing" and then list the dates

I would list full-time worker. I'm sure you did more working at home then you would at a job. BUT I think most employers understand that women if possile do like to stay at home with their young children.

My church employment program offers free return to work counseling. They cover everything from resumes, cover letters, power statements, interview helps and they help a lot of stay at home moms returning to work in the same position as you. They can also help offer advice on how to brush up on skills and network. There is no pressure to attend the church at all. If interested, you can find a location near you here:

https://www.ldsjobs.org/ers/ct/stakes---wards.jsf?name=th...

to find a center:
https://www.ldsjobs.org/ers/center/find_center.jsf

Also, here is some good advice:
http://today.msnbc.msn.com/id/23467395/ns/today-parenting...

Over the past several years, have you been involved in any organizations or committees or networked with people who can attest to your work ethic? You can explain you have been home educating children, then turn the tables and let them know you are current in your field. There are lots of ways you can get current in relearning software and such.

I went through a similar situation. Have you done any volunteer work or been involved with any specific organization since being home with your little ones? Did you take any classes while at home? I finally put together my resume and put in the volunteer work that I did that showed my passion and work ethic. I also included the schooling I took during the time I was at home which demonstrated my interest and ability to fine tune my skills. It is hard, but I think the right people will understand that you were a SAHM. Those who don't, well, they might not be the people you would want to work for anyway. In these hard economic times, a great many people have unexplained work lapses and most people get it about raising small children. Like another poster, I probably would refrain mentioning about homeschooling unless you are seeking work with a homeschooling group. However, you could mention that you developed curriculum for small children if, in fact, that is what you did. Best of luck to you!

I'd address the gap in your cover letter, not your resume. Professionals probably won't care one wit that you stayed home with your kids. That's business. Say it briefly then move on to selling your skills. Good luck!