Planning Your Return to Work After Pregnancy

Now that your maternity leave is coming to an end, it’s time to start thinking about how to make the transition from home to work smoother. A little preparation goes a long way in boosting your confidence of how well things will go while you’re away. Whoever will be caring for your baby will do so with greater ease because of how organized you are.

Consider this your guide to planning your return to work after pregnancy.

It gives you the rundown of the things you need to do after your maternity leave is up. It helps better prepare you and your baby for what’s yet to come with your schedule in the future.

Decide Who Will Provide Childcare

This is among the most difficult decisions for a mother to make. Deciding who to trust with your baby takes careful consideration. If you have a family member who is willing to provide childcare, it could save you money and give you peace of mind knowing that your little one is with someone who is familiar and loving. If you don’t have the luxury of living close to your parents or siblings, investing in a quality childcare facility is the best option.

Stockpile Breast Milk if You Breastfeed

If you currently breastfeed your child, you will need to keep an ample supply of milk on hand to nourish your baby. You’ll send it to the family member’s home or childcare facility with your infant. It may take some time for your child to get used to bottle feeding when he or she is used to breastfeeding.

You can make it easier on the little one by introducing the bottle before your maternity leave is up. That way, you can see how well they respond to it. If they won’t do anything but latch onto your breast, you’ll need to come up with another solution for feedings.

When Going Back to Work Doesn’t Make Sense

If you’re paying for childcare and it’s eating into your salary, it’s best to crunch numbers to determine the practicality of keeping your job. Oftentimes, parents don’t realize that keeping a job costs them more than they make. If you’re not offered a childcare subsidy and can’t work from home, it may be best to reconsider your need to return to work.

This is a choice that often feels difficult to make. Sometimes, the parent that makes the most money opts to work. While the parent who makes the least amount of money stays home to care for the child. Stay-at-home dads are normal these days, so if you have a well-paying job with amazing benefits, this might be the best route for you and your family to choose.

If you’re planning to go back to work after having your baby, you’ll be ready. You’ll have all your to-dos checked off your list. It will be easier for you once you do have to say goodbye to your little one because you know he or she will be well taken care of.