Resentment of parents in the workplace

[Jraven]

Do you find that non-parents are understanding of you at work? I remember before kids not exactly being sympathetic when colleagues' childcare plans fell apart and they had time off because I guess I just didn't know what it was like - I just thought they should organize themselves better. Now I'm resentful that people don't appreciate that I'm usually incredibly reliable and rarely hungover (unlike most young non-parents in my office) even if it's obvious that kids are my priority. I'm certainly less ambitious than i was pre-kids but that's partly because I've been written off as poor material because I'm a mum, I think.

Mumsnet - the 5th emergency service? I think so. Since my first son was born 7 years ago I've had all sorts of parenting questions swimming around in my head. It's so nice to find a place to express them.

There are times when you don't want to get a single opinion from a friend, or you want to share experiences with parents who have no preconceptions about you or your child. I've found comments here really thought-provoking. Discussing where we all stand helps to focus me on what I believe in. Paradoxically I think the mutual support really reveals itself when we have differing views. Its amazing how constructive people can be while not agreeing. And on the rare times that this doesn't happen, it really stands out.

As for Kia's idea about a mumsnet LETS scheme, yes I think it could be very interesting. An extension of the message board, perhaps? Justine and Carrie what do you think? I have lots of LETS information - will post an overview about it if anyone is interested.

Like Marina, I too hope mumsnet views reach a wider audience of decision-makers. And that they log on and contribute as well. What fun we could have. Mind you if Tony Blair gets addicted to this site, how will he fit in his election campaigning?

I'm not happy you are right!! The only job I have is 3 nights a week. Jack is at nursery during the day and I would much rather be working then. But it's down to what you can get!!

I liked it at first because then I didn't have to ask anyone to pick Jack up for me but now I feel like I am doing nothing really. I don't want a job just to get by. I want THE job whatever that will be. I'll know when I see it. Doesn't make me sound very organised that I realise.

I never said Mumsnet was "anti-women" that was in reference to another site called "full time mums" I think it was or it might have been Melissa Hill's site, I can't remember now!!

It would be wonderful instead of 'going live' to some old has-been the media could be persuaded to come to Mumsnet for the view from reality! All they'd have to do would be to post their question and sit back!! I don't know how we could go about LETS online as a practical option, it was just an idea. I've asked around and come up with something for Gracie's friend to try - if they're asking her to do presentations and it's not in the original job spec or contract then the company has to provide training for her to perform new duties. It might be a way to get the training paid for and THEN leave! I'm not 100% on the way UK employment law works, but there's all kinds of people out there who do, equal ops for a starting point. Is there a union she can join? Hey! Mumsnet - a force to be reckoned with!! I have the feeling some poor little slave at party hq is tasked with surfing the net for 'points to raise during election time'! Did you see Mr Brown's gaffe this evening not letting the lady answer the question put to her? Check the news out this evening if you haven't and look at the sick grin on her face.

Sorry Jbr, I misunderstood!

I know this is a serious subject but a friend of mine has just sent me a list of stuff which is supposed to tell you if you are ready to have children or not and its funny, but quite long. However, the final assignment is "find a couple who already have a small child, lecture them on how they can improve their child's discipline, patience, tolerance, toilet training, table manners and ... (fill in blank here). Suggest many ways they can improve. This will be the last time you have all the answers." I think most of us could recognise this person at 100 metres!