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Going Back to Work after Maternity Leave

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If you think it's going to be tough, try these five steps

By ClubMom Member Sheree, Jamaica, NY

For many moms, going back to work after spending so much time with their newborn is one of the most difficult things they ever have to do. Here are some ideas that may make the transition just a little bit easier:

1. Prior to returning to work, leave your child with the sitter or in daycare on a part-time basis. This will allow your child the opportunity to get used to the new situation and caregiver(s), and may relieve some of your anxiety.

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2. See if your employer will allow you to transition back to work gradually, for example by working half days for a period of time or by doing some telecommuting.

3. See if your employer would be open to a flexible work arrangement on a regular basis. If you try it temporarily and it is successful, your boss may be open to the idea.

4.  Speak with your supervisor shortly after your return to discuss career development and transitioning responsibilities back to you.

5. And remember to bring plenty of pictures for your office — they will put an instant smile on your face!

Articles, tips, and other postings on the ClubMom Website are written by our members and represent the opinion of the author, and not ClubMom. ClubMom is not responsible for the accuracy, completeness, or usefulness of any of our user or partner-provided content. The content on the ClubMom Website is intended for informational purposes only. If you have specific concerns about your health or the health of your child, always seek the advice of your physician or other medical professional.

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ClubMom member Jennifer from Center Line, MI wrote on Dec 30, 2005 at 01:36 PM:
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I had a hard time going back to work after my first child was born. I was able to bring my daughter to work with me for a few weeks part time. Even though that was hard it did make it an easier transition. I would reccomend working a few half days the first week or so to slowly get back into the swing of things.

1 out of 2 moms found this comment helpful.

ClubMom member Wendy from Ladson, SC wrote on Jan 4, 2006 at 12:17 PM:
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I think that story above is good, but for any new moms very hard to read, so much to do before you return to work. I was a stay at home more for the first 1 1/2 year, I was going to go back to work, but I just thought it would be better for my little girl. Now Im full time at work and she attends a great child care. Take your time looking for a good child care, your child will be there for more then 20 hours a week. Also the big thing I did was when I thought I would return to work in 6 weeks, I put my little girl in her big crib. They will sleep in a big one at daycare, and for the the first 3 or 4 times she hated it. So then I left her in there for 5 min, then next day 10 min and so on. That was a great thing, she was no longer scared. SO I hope this helps new moms, its very hard at first, but its great!!! Good luck!

2 out of 2 moms found this comment helpful.

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