Preparing yourself and your child for your return to work
In the weeks leading up to returning to work get your child used to being with others for gradually longer periods. This could be your parents, a baby sitter or a friend. Take them to play groups or to visit friends so they get used to the company of other children.
Both these things will help your child adjust more easily when the time comes, and also make you feel more confident about leaving them in the care of others.
The week before returning to work Ideally, you should book your child into the nursery, or your choice of child carer, the week before you are intending to return to work.
In this week you should accompany your child. Initially this may mean that you stay with them on their first day, taking part in the activities of playing with them. Gradually reduce the time you spend with them as the week progresses.
By the end of the week, you should have reached the point where you can spend a whole working day away.
Coping with the first week
Do
Prepare their bag and your work things the night before, so you don’t feel stressed in the mornings.
Leave enough time to ensure you can settle your child in before you leave for work.
Ask for a progress update from the nursery each day, to reassure you and check on your child’s comfort level with the new environment
Call the nursery if you have a particular concern during the day.
Don’t
Let your child see you are upset when you leave them. Children are sensitive to your feelings; your apprehension will project onto them and could cause them distress and insecurity after your departure.
Be too hard on yourself, your feelings are a natural reaction and it will take a time for you to adjust to balancing work and child responsibilities
Feel guilty about enjoying going back to work and re-gaining some of your independence!
In this week you should accompany your child. Initially this may mean that you stay with them on their first day, taking part in the activities of playing with them. Gradually reduce the time you spend with them as the week progresses.