Most mothers go back to work at some point. About half do so before their children start school. It may help you to talk to other working mothers, but the most important thing is to decide what’s right for you and your family. There are several issues to consider.
Feeding
If your baby is still breastfeeding, try to get them used to taking milk from a bottle or cup before you go back to work.
Read more about breastfeeding when you're back at work and expressing and storing your breastmilk.
Childcare
Keeping arrangements as simple as possible will mean that things are more likely to run smoothly and be less stressful for you. Make arrangements that you're reasonably sure will keep working over time. Childcare can be very expensive. Will you be able to afford to pay for childcare out of what you earn? Can you find work that you can do while your partner is at home? Can you fit work into school hours? Can a friend or relative help out at least some of the time?
Have you checked all the benefits and Tax Credit help that you may be entitled to? Try the Money Advice Service's Childcare calculator to help you work out the cost of childcare. Find out more about Parental rights and benefits.
Read more about deciding on childcare.
Housework
Think about who’s going to do it and when. If you have a partner, talk to them about how you’re going to share the housework and childcare.
Making time for your child. Even the best childcare isn’t a substitute for a parent. There are ways that you can spend quality time with your child so that they know they’re special. If you work long hours during the week, can you or your partner keep your weekends free? If you don’t see your child in the day, can they stay up later in the evening and sleep longer during the day? You may be able to work flexitime, part-time or do a four-day week so that you have time to spend with your child.
Flexible working
Parents with a child under 17 or a disabled child under 18 have the right to ask their employers for flexible working arrangements. Find out more about your right to flexible working and how to apply.
Further information
