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[Charl75]

Hi,
had my gorgeous baby boy at the beginning of April. He was 2 weeks overdue and my mat leave started in Feb as I had SPD. I'm a teacher and plan to go back full time in september. My husband will then have a month off with bab before bab going to nursery 4 mornings a week and the rest of the time being cared for by my mum and sister. I WISH I could go back part time or not at all yet but just can't in any way afford it. Both partner and I looked into this but can't be done. So so sick of anyone - whether they know me well or not - expressing their shock and sadness about me returning to work so soon/at all. Before I had bab I LOVED work but now feel guilty/jealous/selfish/ and a whole host of other emotions. Anyone have any experiences (positive?)that you can share with me?

The emotions that you express - guilt/jealousy/selfishness - are all part of being a parent, we will always find someone who has something to say about the choices we make. As a parent only you can truly know what is best for you and your family and frankly it's nobody else's business. Rise above it and have the courage to stand by your own convictions, you will have a happier life for it! I work, I wish I didn't have to but I do. My kids adore their nursery, have a terrific time, and come running into my arms with excitement everytime I go to pick them up. In the long run it is definitely a positive experience (my kids are happy, I get satisfaction from my work and we can afford a decent standard of living) and you will find your balance. Good luck!

Someone once told me to be proud of the choices I had made.

I work FOR my dd, my dp's wages pay the bills and my wages enable us to have a decent quality of life.

she sees me working, she grows up knowing the importance of work and how working is a positive thing.

Being around other people is good for dd, when I was on maternity leave it was just me and her a lot of the time, now she gets to see lots of different people everyday and play with different children and make friends.

working makes me happy and happy mum = happy baby.

These are all positives. You have nothing to feel guilty about, unfortunately guilt is inevitable for most working mothers. Don't listen to anyone else and know in your heart that you are doing the best you possibly can for your baby.

Thanks.
Really appreciate the messages. Most people I know are part time or SAHMs so needed to hear the other side of things.