For me, I preferred the time off at the start. But we are pretty fortunate with DH's roster in that he works a 3 week cycle, and in those 3 weeks he works 11 days ( 6 days and 5 nights to be exact)

His first week back at work was 3 nights, and then he had 4 Rostered days off, followed by 3 days and 2 nights then 5 days off then another 3 days, one off and start all over again.

Having the c/s, I found it useful having DH home from the start. Having an older child going to school was also helpful him being home to do the school run. Many different circumstances. What works now might not work next time for you?