Unsure about returning to work...

[organicem]

I am just feeling a bit confused about deciding to return to work.
With DD1 I returned to work at 11 months because I started to hate being at home as I had no adult contact/conversation and was not even feeling valued as a mum and wife.
Now I have decided to return to work when DD2 is about 6 months old as I want to avoid the feelings I had previously.
However once childcare is paid for I won't actually be bringing home much income and I feel a bit guilty for having DD2 in childcare so young.
So I guess I am looking for reassurance, especially from mums in similar situations that my DD's will still benefit greater from me being a working away from home mum?

Thanks in advance.

[Ca Plane Pour Moi]

I'm making a loss having DS in childcare ATM so I can work - so you'll get support from me!

Just remember (don't kill me for using this cliche) - happy mum = happy baby. If you're miserable at home, how does that help? Your child can go to childcare, maybe part-time, you'll be happier and if you get a good childcare your child will be happy too. If your child really hates childcare then you'll have to consider other options but why not give it a go?

[Jaycee]

I just wanted to pop in and say just because you had those feeling with DD1 doesn't mean you'll have them this time around.
Are you happy being at home at the moment? Are you returning to work just because you want to avoid those feelings or because you really want to?
I would want to be sure that the decision you make is the one you actually WANT TO DO

[luna moth]

Depending how much you're paying for c'care, and what your benefits are, for two little ones, is it worth getting a nanny? It can be such a great experience - someone coming to you who is really enthusiastic about spending a day with them and doing different things, while you go out to work. I know that at the Centre where I work, it's cheaper to get a nanny for 2 under 3 if you don't get any CCB. Also, some nannies are registered for CCB so you get it anyway (but they tend to be more expensive than the cash in hand variety)

[organicem]

Depending how much you're paying for c'care, and what your benefits are, for two little ones, is it worth getting a nanny? It can be such a great experience - someone coming to you who is really enthusiastic about spending a day with them and doing different things, while you go out to work. I know that at the Centre where I work, it's cheaper to get a nanny for 2 under 3 if you don't get any CCB. Also, some nannies are registered for CCB so you get it anyway (but they tend to be more expensive than the cash in hand variety)

Thats an idea, but I had nannies as a child and they were pretty much a disaster...might have a look at it though if I can get the courage!!