Going back to work - what would be ideal working hours? please help

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I am doing some research for work as I will be going on Maternity leave shortly and we are looking into cover whilst I am away. My boss was wondering if anyone had any thoughts on what would be the ideal hours for a mum going back to work part time, but as he has never had this situation (and I am a first time mum), I was hoping that you may be able to offer some suggestions. Many thanks for your help.

Well for me I would like to be in work at 9.30am and then leave at 3pm and preferably not work school holidays or weekends.

I know this is not always practical and thats why I am happy at home

Sounds like you are really lucky with your boss!

It does depend on your childcare really - and age of child. When I only had one DC and she was little, I preferred to have her at her childminder for two or three full days and work that pattern. I have been lucky as she has got older (and DC2 has also arrived) I have been able to adjust my work pattern around them - so now I do 2 long days and 2 short days (one school hours and one just a morning).

I would say look at childcare options first then work around that.

For me it was 9-3 .

Sorry 9-3 , 3 days a week.

Depends what childcare you're using

If it's nursery then longer days and less if them make more economics sense - so 9-5 for 3 days

But once kids are at school 9.30-3 would be ideal