How to prepare for returning to work after having a baby

Sure, getting back to work can provide welcome relief from the daily grind of life with a young child, but trying to juggle a career with a newborn is challenging, to say the least.

According to the Professional Association for Childcare and Early Years, nine out of 10 mums feel anxious about returning to work after having a child, with almost half saying they feel very anxious.

“With the increasing pressure on mothers to achieve the perfect work/life balance, feelings of guilt, anxiety and worry are all-consuming and separation anxiety is increasingly commonplace amongst parents and children,” says Penny Tassoni, PACEY president and early years expert.

Clearly, returning to work after maternity poses emotional conflicts – but according to Marsha Thompson, an employment solicitor at Slater and Gordon Lawyers, you need let go of guilt.

“You may feel guilty about going back to work and abandoning your little one, or you may feel guilty about wanting to go back,” says Marsha. “The reality is, going back into the workplace will be a challenge whether you’re a highly organised ‘super mum’ or a more easy going mummy.

“The only way to make the process easier is to plan ahead and mentally/physically prepare yourself for the return. Also, have a back-up plan in the event your baby or child care provider is sick.”