AIBU to think about working more when my kids are so young?

[Beatrixpotty]

In myv late 30's and DSs are 1&2.I had a good career before they were born and put a lot into it.I didn't put off having kids for career reasons though, just wasted time with men who weren't interested and luckily got married,pregnant,at 35.I'm back at work now but only work 2 days per week.My job satisfaction is quite low now as I'm not there enough and I would get more out of it by working 3 or 4 days per week.My profession is such that it is possible to work part-time like this.My reasons for only doing 2 days were because I wanted to be around with the children and although I make an effort to do nice things with them, some days,like today when the weather is terrible we have just gone to the supermarket and stayed in watching DVDs.I think they have a much more fun day at nursery but is it just as good for them to be at home doing a bit less?DH has a good job and we don't rely on my income.Am I selfish for considering to work more just for my own satisfaction and what would the impact be on the kids if they are in childcare more?Would it matter for an extra day a week?Interested in hearing all views..

Nope - either way is fine, do what suits you best.

YANBU at all. You have to do what suits your family unit. If you will be happier working more hours and the DCs are happy and having fun at nursery, well I reckon it's a bit of a no brainer really :)

IMO it depends on how it would change YOUR dynamics, when I was off loads with DS I did less with him than when I was working loads (made my days off really count, and did lots of quality time activity)

I think it depends on your kids.
My DD loves her nursery. She needs the company and the stimulation they provide. She gets bored at home with me. So, I can go to work knowing that she is happy and in the right place for her. How would your DC's fair with more time at nursery?

You also have to consider when they are ill and need to be at home with you. That's easier when you are only working a few days a week. What's your back up plan?

Happy mum = happy family.

Do what you need to do for your sanity.

Do what you need to do for your sanity - but make sure you are always in a position to support yourself and your DCs should you need to. No one knows what's around the corner in terms of health, relationships, redundancies etc. so try not to be in a vulnerable position if at all possible.

I made some choices which were right and some which were wrong - but that's all in retrospect. Something which was perfect for one dc turned out to be wrong for another, one career change was a bit of a dead end - you just have to weigh it up, make the best choice you can for you and them, take a deep breath and jump. good luck!

Of course YANBU. If you are happy, then the dynamics of the whole family are much better - be that with you working 2,3,4 or 5 days, or something in between.