To not return to work?

[IWantAShitzu]

I am a mum of four under 10, the youngest being 3 months old.

I work part time 3 days a week and have managed okay raising the first three and juggling work etc.

I LOVE my job, work with a fantastic team and although they are very relaxed the nature of the job means I have to be on the ball when at work (social services)

my little baby has been seriously unwell and has been diagnosed with a rare genetic disorder. He has seizures pretty much daily and will have a significant developmental delay so will need lots of extra care.

for this reason, I don’t want to return to my job. As much as I love it and would be sad to leave, I love my baby more.

a friend has been trying to persuade me to still work, as I can WFH and she suggested I do it with the little one me in the house.

I just don’t feel that’s fair on him, like any child he will need stimulating and entertaining, not being sat in the house all day.

i know there is lots of support available re: childcare but as his mum I want to be with him. The thought of someone else caring for him when he has a seizure makes me feel sick.

I was just made to feel like I’m overreacting.

we can manage financially if we tighten our belts a little and my husband is fully supportive.

I guess I’m just asking what you would do in this situation?

i feel so stressed and emotional. I almost lost my boy and he needs constant monitoring, i want to be the one that is with him xx

Is your husband going to contribute to your pension? Can you take a sabbatical and go back after a year?

I would absolutely do what you're planning OP! Will give you more time and energy for your other kids too.

If you are in uk you don't need to decide yet. You have up to a year ml and might be able to use accrued leave and parental leave, although that may not guarantee your job. Agree working whilst caring for a young child, let alone one with additional needs, is a non starter.

a friend has been trying to persuade me to still work, as I can WFH and she suggested I do it with the little one me in the house.

What a strange thing for her to do. Whatever decision you make about work, I definitely wouldn't do it while looking after a baby/toddler at the same time.

Stay home, you have a lot of kids and one with additional needs. Being home will enable you to make some economies to the housekeeping to help with finances.