To return to work FT after being a SAHM for 4 years?

[Sayhellotothesun]

My children are 5 (at school), 3 (15hrs childcare currently) and 2 (doesn't qualify for 15 hours until April). I feel like I'm going out of my mind at home now, but I'm worried that returning to work will be detrimental to them emotionally as they are all so used to me being at home. It's really hard to get a job in my career experience part- time. Financially we won't be that much better off, but I need to do something for me.

AIBU to my children to suddenly leave them full time?

No, I don’t think you ABU at all if it’s what you want. Kids are super adaptable. Presumably although you won’t be much better off now, you’ll be better off when your youngest qualifies for 15 hours in April, and much better off when your youngest two start school?

No, you're not.

Men don't worry themselves to death over these questions ... only women. Please stop torturing yourself. You want a career. Tell you DH you're going to return to your career and he needs to step up to do more for the home and children.

Thank you. I feel so guilty at even the thought of it, which I know is stupid. I don't really feel like I'm giving them anything at home anymore either.

I don’t ever recall a man worrying about returning to work FT after becoming a parent. You’ll be fine. The kids will be fine.

Anyone who says anything to make you feel bad is just exposing their own insecurities.