Feeling guilty about going back to work

[Autumn13]

My maternity leave is up at the end of the month, my baby will be 9 months old. The plan was to go back to work 3 days a week but my bosses need my there for 4 days instead, including a weekend day. I feel awful about leaving her for so long, how much do you work? Do you find it affects your relationship with your baby?

My maternity leave is almost up too and DS is 8.5 months ( will be 9 when I go back) . I will be doing 3 days a week. I'm nervous about it especially as to how much rushing around on my work days it will be. It will be a long day 7.30-6 probably from leaving house to getting home. But I think it will make me appreciate the time I do have with him on my days off more , he will benefit from a different environment/people and I will get some brain stimulation! It's a scary time isn't it but I'm sure they will be fine , it's harder for us than for them.

My LO is 9 months and I’ve just gone back three days per week - In just a few weeks I can see how much she’s thriving at nursery and I’m enjoying adult time (and hot cups of tea!) and when I do have my days off with her I absolutely love them - I was finding being at home with a baby pretty much full lockdown was getting a bit draining, and if I’m honest a bit boring sometimes for her and me! Honestly I never thought I’d be happy going back to work when she was so little but it’s been absolutely fine!

Meant to say she’s out the house from 8-6 so it’s a long day too and she’s shattered after but just means she sleeps even better

I went back full time 5 days when ds was 6mth, although with compressed hours so 3 x 11 hours days and two half days. No option as I pay the bills.
I am also now studying part time too for professional exams.
Its hard work but my mother always worked full time and with 4 of us under 6. I think it's sets a good example to my son and shows him you have to work and earn money to get what you wnat.
Your doing a good thing for your child and providing them all the comforts they need, a nice home, clothes and food. My ds loves his childminder and it's really good for their socialisation to see other kids.
You will miss him but you still with ahve 3 full days with him and he will be okay.