Ktee - I returned to work when our DS was 10.5 months and DH took his entitled paid parental leave and then 3 months of long service leave (so had 4.5 months / 18 weeks at home with DS), now I work part time and DS has two days with me, two days in CC and one day with my Mum.

This arrangement worked well for us both financially (we were able to make the most of all our entitlements) and DH LOVED spending this very special time with DS and DS LOVED spending time with Daddy - and knowing DS was home with Dad made my return to work much easier. Although if finances weren't an issue I would choose to be a SAHM, in hindsight I am VERY VERY glad my DH had the same opportunity to spend this 1on1 time with his child during this amazing time (where they change every day). We'll be doing exactly the same with baby #2.

In answer to your question about being selfish - the answer is Yes, but of course every Mum would want to maximise their time with their baby, so its perfectly ok. But I must say that Dads are just as good a parent as Mums, and we must give them the same opportunities where possible to bond and care for their babies that Mums get (because people assume thats the right thing to do). The relationship my DH and DS have is simply wonderful, and like all babies, DS will always want Mum first, but golly gosh he loves his Daddy to bits Also, the added bonus is that your DH will have a WHOLE new appreciation for everything you do, as they suddenly have an understanding of what it's like to be the SAHP.

I strongly urge you to give it a go, frankly I think Dads often get 'forgotten' amongst the whole new baby, new mother journey, and to be able to have a family arrangement where both you and DH have the same opportunity to care for your baby is a wonderful wonderful thing that will have long lasting positive effects in bonding your family