I am shortly going back to work full time and leaving DD (13 weeks old) at home with a lovely lady who will be looking after her. Like many other Mumsnetters have already mentioned, I am dreading the return, mainly because i have a long work day (part time or flexible working not an option) and i'm worrying that i am not going to be around much to help DD learn about the world/develop and that we'll lose the closeness we've had since she was born. But needs must and I have to go back. I was wondering if any Mumsnetters had any tips for maximising the weekday time spent with her? I am planning to breastfeed her before and straight after work, get up an hour early so I can read to her, sing songs with her (poor kid!), generally play together and I am going to try to use annual leave to take a few half days so i can go with her to the odd playgroup sessions in a few months' time. Is there anything else you guys have found helps maximise the weekday time available? I suspect DD will be fine, will accept the new reality without any problems and it's Mummy that actually needs the closeness but any thoughts would be very much appreciated. Thank you.