Kids in the Field-
Like most things academic, the title of this blog can be unpacked.
The blog is neither solely for those who have kids nor for those who are in the field. Rather, it is intended for those who have children, are considering parenthood, have sworn against becoming parents, as well as the children of academics. Similarly, field is understood rather broadly. It is not only the place that some of us go to do research, but is also the larger academic field in which we work. While we are anthropologists, all academics have a field in terms of a discipline, and many have an additional one in which they are expected to do some sort of research. What this all means, is that you're welcome here, regardless of what academic discipline you hail from, and whether your research site is domestic, international, online, or textual.
For us, as anthropologists, this blog arose as Jo and I decided to finally take the plunge and expand our family while doing international field research. The decision for us, as for many, was filled with lots of discussions: what would life be like with a baby in the field? How will being pregnant affect fieldwork? How will we write our dissertations while trying to provide childcare? A few friends shared with us their experiences of integrating parenting and graduate school. Inspired by them, their families, and ourselves, we decided to take the plunge and try to share whatever insights and experiences we have with the rest of y'all.
