Returning to work - as bad as I'm fearing?!

[SparkleSausage]

Just that really.... I'm returning to work in April when DD will be 9.5 months old (couldn't afford to take longer as some do) - going back to a job I love that was full-on full-time but is now 25 hours per week, 2 full days and 2 half days (recruited another person to cover my remaining workload who I will line manage) DD will be with DH one full day - he has dropped to 4 days pw- & at childminders 1 full and 2 half days. I love maternity leave, feel so busy & happy with my lot. Can't imagine going back. Worried about DD not being old enough, wishing I could have taken 12 months... Dreading being both a bad Mum and bad at my job! What's your experiences?

I didn't anticipate the illnesses that DC would pick up and then not be able to go to the childminders. There seemed to be endless colds, coughs, ear infections, head lice, chicken pox. I was ill a lot the first year after going back to work. Found it difficult to keep on top of everything

You sound like you have a good balance though

That is a great set-up! I do 3 days (on mat leave again now) and it is a good balance. Would love it if DH could do a day like yours will as I think that's so valuable for their relationship and for yours. Yes, I would recommend saving some of the accrued leave as they do get sick a lot at first. Also it's hard to leave then the first few times so I made DH do it. They settle quickly when they're young though.

Your plan sounds really good. A nice balance for you, DH and your little one. It is quite tough going back at first but there are perks two - it's surreal getting a lunch break all to yourself! You will do fine. Remember on the rough days when you are tired that there are mums who go back 5 full days a week leaving 3 month babies. I went back 3 days a week when my DS was 6 months. Once you get your morning routine sorted out you just get on with it. Think of your pay packet and independence. You don't get those as a SAHP.