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Let us talk frankly, in many cases giving birth is so physically exhausting that it might be
a while before you even feel ready to leave your bed never mind return to work. The problem arises when you have gotten over
the birth and you discover that even the most career minded of us have conflicting emotions about returning to work. Well
take heart this is totally normal, it may be a shock but it is what most of our mums felt. They felt guilty, scared, frustrated,
and many were overwhelmed by the very thought of juggling the baby and their jobs.
Rights of Working Mothers
Working mothers generally need more flexibility in their schedules for a variety of reasons,
their own ante-natal appointments, their children’s health concerns, childcare issues, breastfeeding and more. At the
moment new mothers do not automatically have the entitlement to flexible or part time working hours but they do have the right
to request such hours and to have their request be seriously considered.
In addition, new mothers do have the right to time off for ante-natal care, safe working environments
in which they might breastfeed, unpaid parental leave and to claim Child Tax Credit. For further information on the rights
of working mothers, visit:
Childcare
Finding childcare for baby can be hard but it is important that you do what is right for you
and your baby. If you are lucky enough to have a family member who you trust and who can look after your child then great,
but bear in mind that it is very tiring taking care of a baby or toddler and it may still be necessary to look for alternative
care to allow, for example, your mum a couple of days off. There are a variety of childcare options open to you including:
- Day nurseries
- Childminders
- Nannies
- Au pairs
If you choose to put your child into nursery or have them taken care of by a childminder, nanny
or au pair make sure that you take the time to research the nursery, interview potential childminders, nannies and au pairs
as you might any candidate for a new job, if you have doubts keep looking. Only leave your child with someone you feel 100%
about, they may have the right qualifications but there is just something that you don’t like about them, if you don’t
follow your instinct you will spend all your time worrying and make your lives and theirs hell.
Questions to ask child minders, nannies and au pairs:
- Certification and qualifications.
- Experience.
- References.
- Childcare philosophies (particularly regarding discipline).
- Typical activities carried out with the children.
- Availability.
- Hours and rates.
Tips for working mums
- Don't punish yourself for working,
we are our own hardest critics, it would be lovely to stay at home and coo over
our babies but the hard facts are that most of us need the money and more than that, many women need the stimulation that
a job brings. Do not feel guilty for being who you are, your child will get no benefit from a mum who is resentful, unfulfilled
and unhappy at home
Lower your standards on house work, or get help from family or if you can afford it a cleaner once a week, fortnight
Prepare lunches, pack bags and lay children’s clothes out the night before it saves the mad rush in the morning
Make time for you, just a few hours a week will make a huge difference
Try to make time to spend alone with your partner, it is amazing how many couples neglect their relationship once
a child is born don't do it, it can lead to all kinds of trouble.
Jo's story
Before I was pregnant I had a very good job which I enjoyed. When Max came along I fully intended
to have it all, bouncing baby and a thriving career. Boy was I mistaken! I returned to work but found it totally
mind numbing, I spent most of my time wishing I was at home with Max, it will get better everyone told me but no luck. If
anything I started to resent having to go to work and my husband for not earning enough to support us if I stayed at home,
nearly half my wage was going to the nursery and I had no idea of what was going on there.
Then it came to a head when Max fell and had to be rushed to hospital, I felt so guilty and decided
that something had to change! It was so simple and yet it never entered my head, Part Time!! That was it, because
it was only three days a week my mum said she would have Max, it couldn't be better. Now I enjoy going to work and I
am not filled with guilt and worry as every day I know he is safe, healthy and very happy. In fact, I think he has more fun
with his grandma than he does with me! I cannot understand why I felt so much pressure to return to my old life as if
nothing had changed. It is just not possible to have it all and I now realise that, it is all about balance.
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This Internet site provides information of a general nature and is designed for information purposes
only. If you have any concerns about your own health or the health of your child, you should always consult with a physician
or other healthcare professional. Please review the terms and conditions before using this site. Your use of the
site indicates your agreement to be bound by the terms and conditions
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