Going Back To Work After Having A Baby}

Going Back To Work After Having A Baby

by

Nick Swisher

Returning to work after maternity leave, or after an extended time at home with your child, can be difficult. Finding the right care for your baby is one of the best ways to make the transition easier for both parent and child.

Finding child care providersToward the end of Laura’s pregnancy, she began interviewing nannies. “Since my job occasionally requires me to work long hours, we decided that in-home care was best for Colin,” she said. “Though the interview process was long, we were able to feel comfortable with our choice since we had spent so much time and effort checking everything out.” Laura and her husband interviewed four nannies from two different local agencies. Since the agency had already provided background checks and references, their interviews focused on the nannies’ skills and personalities.Other parents find that a child care center works best for them and their baby. The National Resource Center for Health and Safety in Child Care and Early Education recommends that parents research centers very carefully, as the level of care can vary greatly from one center to another. A checklist of questions to ask can be found at http://nrc.uchsc.edu/RESOURCES/ParentsGuide.pdfAnother option can be family members. “My daughter, Caitlin, stays with my sister while I’m at work,” says Kim, a human resources specialist. “Since she is home with her two boys during the day, she’s able to care for Caitlin and I know she loves her as much as I do.” Leaving your child with family can provide a sense of security for both parent and child. It is also typically one of the least expensive options.Beginning your search for care early is important. The best nannies or child care centers are high in demand and some centers have long waiting lists. Working out hours, pay and expectations can all be done far in advance, leaving both you and the caregiver time to iron out other details related to caring for your baby.Before you go back to workThe transition between home and child care can be eased with a little advanced preparation. Several weeks before returning to work, begin introducing your child to his new caregiver. Especially if your baby or child is older, this will reduce anxiety. Megan returned to work when her daughter was two. “We started visiting Jenny’s child care center three weeks before I started my new job. We dropped in and joined the other kids for lunch, and Jenny spent time getting to know the teachers. We visited a total of four times, for about an hour each time. By the time the day came to leave her there, she felt like she knew what was going on and didn’t hesitate at all.”Megan also helped Jenny make a little book to carry with her to day care. She included photos of the family, the house and their pets. “Jenny likes to look at her little book during the day. It helps her connect with us even when we’re not there,” says Megan.Other children like to have special stuffed animals or blankets with them when they are away from parents. Caitlin, who stays with her aunt during the day, takes a stuffed Koala bear with her.Easing InTo make the transition easier, you can also try easing back into your work schedule. If your employer will allow, begin by working a shorter day, gradually increasing your hours to normal. See if you can work at home a few days during the week. Going from a few hours a day to full-time can help both you and your child become accustomed to being apart during the day.

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Going Back To Work After Having A Baby}