Heading back to work with 6mo, how will I cope!

[EmmaReads]

Hi all,

I guess I’m just after some reassurance, some practical tips and some insight into how other mums manage.

I’m heading back to work in September, my LO will be 6 months. I’m going back to an 8-4, M-F role, my husband works very unsociable hours.

I’m just trying to figure a routine really, for getting me & LO ready in the morning, dropping him to nursery, then still managing in the evening to have a lovely evening routine with him and have some nice dinners.

I bought a slow cooker, and plan on batch cooking a load of bits for my LO as he will also be starting his weaning journey around the same time.

I know we will cope, it’s just new and a bit daunting, I wish I was in a position not to go back to work so soon but it is what it is.

Thank you for taking the time to read this.

Personally I wouldn't worry too much about routines. Nursery or CM will implement their own and it all changes so much around that age anyway. Also don't expect miracles after work. You'll be knackered and so will your baby after a long day.

I went back full time when both of mine were 6 months old. You just do what you need to get through the days. Don't stress too much. Get yourself ready first in the morning. Even if you need to wake up at 4am to do it. Lower your standards. Accept you won't spend loads of time with them.

You will be fine. Get clothes etc ready night before. Make sure baby bag is packed etc.

Your house might not be as clean!

You just need to be organised and it will all come together. Make some weekend plans to look forward to and be aware your baby will probably be very tired in the evenings.

Good luck and try not to worry. You'll get used to it.

As per others, you just have to get organised and do as much as you can the night before. Just as a warning, the logistics are the easy bit. The nightmare is the constant sickness which goes on for months. It's really tough to start with, but does get better. Your husband needs to be prepared to carry his share of the load taking time off when you're summoned by nursery. Make sure you've had that conversation before you go back. We rigidly alternate as I refuse to be expected to be the one making all the concessions.

Main advice is don't expect too much to soon, just focus on surviving the first 6 months. Don't take on too much at work, accept help when offered and remind yourself it will get better and that you're doing lots right even when it feels like everything is going wrong. It is a rollercoaster but as I said, does settle down.