Can I change my mind about ending mat leave?

[MaidaVala2000]

Basically that. DS is 9 months old and I went back to work on Monday, 4 days per week initially including one from home so only 3 days in the office. It was the wrong decision and I feel totally unready and I miss his dreadfully. Legally I think there is nothing I can do as my mat leave has ended, other than begging and pleading my boss. My mat cover is here until end of month so it may be possible to extend her if they were to agree. Any advice? I know I am mucking work around but feel desperate. Just wish I had said I would take 12 months from the outset but money was/is an issue.

Could you ask to do a KIT day or two (or for the days you've done to be counted as KIT days) and not return from Mat leave? Would the cover person be able to extend?

Well, no harm in asking. I had my dc in the time when you only got six months’ maternity leave, and I asked and extended it another two months unpaid for one of my dc. But I did it before I was due to go back.

You can't break your maternity leave. Can you take other unpaid leave, such as a sabbatical, instead?

Perhaps think about why you miss your baby so much - are you not confident with the child care provision, do you no longer care for the job you do? It might be better looking at the cause rather than just deciding to stay at home. You mentioned having to go back for the money, has your financial position changed?

Even if it was agreed you feel the same in 3 months surely.?

I think you've done the hardest bit. It gets easier after the first week. Enjoy your days off with him and gradually re-engage with your job. You'll be fine X

I think it's partly because I miss DS way more than I thought and also because everyone I know seems to be taking 12 months plus accrued holiday so it feels like I am going back early. It's also not helping that my mat cover is very hostile and making me feel quite insecure about things that have happened in my absence. She is staying on with the company but in different role. Just not sure what to do. Feel very strongly I don't want to be there. Money was very tight but circumstances have changed slightly so I could use savings if I wanted to stay off a few more months.