how did you know...

[raffy]

how did you know you were ready to go back to work?

DS is almost 5 months old and ive been offered a job at a childcare centre, i applied for the job coz the baby bonus stops in April and i thought i was ready to back to work even just a couple of days a week. DF supports me 100% whetha i go back now, later or never. but in a way that doesnt help haha i think i just need someone to push me one way or the other. i no i will go back eventually just to regain some independance as i feel bad 'bludging' off DF not that he minds at all. not to mention a little bit of extra cash would be awesome to be able to spoil ourselves more often than we do now.

the other thing is i'm scared i wont enjoy DS as much if im working in a childcare centre, as ill be spending all day with kids and then come home to him. are there any ladies on here that work with kids that can reasure me its ok.

i'm starting to think my hesitation should be my answer itms?? hmmm...

TIA xx

[Catastrophic]

This is a question that only you can answer hun. Not the same thing, but I went back to Uni when DD2 was 6m old, and I felt that I have missed out alot (expecially when doing my placements) But in saying that, I am glad that i am out there doing it, because it's only going to better our lives. The time that I do spend with the kids i make the most of it.

I think a couple days of week would be good, its not full time so your not to tired, and you get to "recharge your mummy batteries" for doing something different.

[tellytubby]

i'm starting to think my hesitation should be my answer itms?? hmmm...

TIA xx

I was very much the same. I would be going back to work with kids (teacher).
Initally I was going to go back to work when DD was 6 months, then it was 12 months. Once 12 months hit I knew I never wanted to put her in care.
Now I have a DD and a DS, and currently have no intentions on returning soon. I figure when they are both in school, then I'll look at returning.

But yes, I was hesitant. I felt sick in the stomach when I would think about it. And that answered my question.

Everyone is different. Do what makes you happy

[Arimeh]

I didn't have a choice, we couldn't afford to pay our mortgage if I didn't work.

It was only the fact that we moved to tassie that I could stay home with the kids, just before DD2 came along.

[MumtoA]

Hey hun,

I think you will just know when you know - not much help i know but this is where was at. I didn't have to go back to work, however prior to getting pregnant i was pretty career orientated. Once i got pregger i left my work place with my finger up in the air letting the whole world know i would never return - i did when she was 5 months! I found being at home all day with DD made me feel extremely isolated and out of touch, hence my decision. I only work 2 days a week and i love it! It makes me appreciate my time with DD so much more plus gives me a little break and the feeling of achievement in a whole other way. I am very lucky that DD'sx grandparents voluntarily take her on the days that i work so she is with family...but to be honest i think it is more fun for them than her. I have no hesitation to put DD in day care and i will also be going back to uni this week so that may be the case one day per week anyway.

Like i said, you will just know when the right time is. You will feel guilty, happy, excited, sad and every other emotion, but only you will know what is right for your family.

xoxo