Interviews after 12 years out with kids/should I mention DC's disabilities?

[CHJR]

Long story, but basically I have three job interviews coming up next week after having been a SAHM for more than 12 years. These 12 years happened because: I had infertility and by the time I got pg I really just wanted to be home with DC. My husband has a high-powered job and we changed continent 3 times in those 12 years. My middle of 3 DC has significant SN, eg autism, low IQ, CP. My question in brief: how much of this last should I mention in interview? It feels to me relevant both as an explanation of why I have been out so long and as an illustration of the fact that I have, in fact, been very busy and learned a lot during my time out of paid employment, something I sincerely and strongly believe. (In the same way, for instance, as living abroad.) On the other hand, I'm afraid employers will see this as just too much baggage and think, especially, a woman with a SN child might have to take a lot of time off. I don't think so or I wouldn't be looking for a FT job, I really think things are well under control (famous last words ). Eg I have a good nanny who is now available FT, all 3 DC are in school anyway, and there is backup too, but what do you think? Better not to go there at all? Or better to be honest and up front?

I wouldn't go there unless it's absolutely relevant to the job. It's fine to have chosen to have been a SAHM until whatever point you deemed fit - they're not going to be wondering why you didn't go back to work 2 years' ago or whatever.

Hi,

I would not mention it, just let the employer focus on you & your skills. Also it sounds defensive, and I imagine you want to sound positive and upbeat.

I found Amy Cuddy's YouTube video useful for preparing for my recent interviews. It is about using your body language to come across as confident and happy.

No, don't mention it.

You need to present yourself as the perfect candidate and, wrongly, that could go against you especially if you get down to the final two and the employer is comparing you against another candidate.

Put a good spin on your time off and be positive. Tell them you wanted time off to look after your children and what you have done/learnt in that time. You don't need to make excuses. It was a conscious choice and you are grateful for that opportunity but now you are keen to get back into the workfoce and their company has such a great reputation, this is such a great opportunity, blah, blah, blah. Tell them what they want to hear basically.

As far as you are concerned, your special needs child is modus operandi and nothing for them to worry about.

Thanks everyone!