How old was your child / children when you returned to work? 6 months. How hard was it for you to find child care? I was organized and had my name on a wait list while pregnant. How did you cope with the combined challenge of your child going to child care and you returning to work? The first day was full of tears for us both. I now realize how wonderful it is to get the biggest cuddle when I pick him up at the end of the day. Did you return to the same job? Yes. Are you part time, full time, job share or contract? Part time. What industry do you work in? What do you do? Dental Hygienist in a private Dental Practice. Is your employer understanding of the work/family balancing act? If yes, can you give an example? Very understanding. From the beginning I explained that I wanted to do limited hours due to my family commitments. Now that you are a mum, have your expectations of work changed? I guess I don’t feel the same about my work responsibilities as I once did. However I do see it as a break from my day to day life and feel that time with my son is now better spent and I appreciate it more. As a mum, what positive attributes do you think you have brought back into the workplace? I definitely have a better outlook on life in general and the pressures on families. I believe this is of benefit when dealing with the community in the health industry. How do you benefit personally from returning to work? My days at home are no longer ‘work’ for me and I make the most of every moment. Being back at work enables me to have some ‘me’ time which I think any mother knows is a must. Do you have any time-saving tips and hints for other mums juggling work and family? Cut lunches and make up bottles etc. the night before. What are your top 3 tips for other mums returning to work? No matter how daunting and stressful it feels, remember that we all must go through it at some point. Whether your child is 3 months or 3 years, the first child care visit will always be difficult but it makes children social and resilient. |
