Working with 3 children (5 and under)

[hormonalmum]

I have informed my work that I am pregnant again with my third child.
I have been asked if I have thought about a finishing date and any going back dates.
My manager was surprised when I told him my intentions are to go back after 9 months maternity leave.
He was surprised that I intend to go back.

Am I deluding myself that I can go back with a 5 year old in school, a 3 year old in preschool and a baby - probably with a childminder?
My 3 year old would be eligible for a funded place so that will help make it "worthwhile"

Work are fairly flexible with regards to hours, so I suggested that I might work my hours over more days and still be able to do most school / preschool drop off and collects?

All fairly local to where we live and I do drive so know that is a bonus.

Am I deluding myself?

I don't think you are deluding yourself. Your boss was probably surprised because often people give up work after 2 children because it isn't cost effective. If its worth your while and you want to go back I would go back, makes it easier in the long run.

I don't think you're deluding yourself at all. Of course it can be done. I would love to go back to work after my 3rd DC is born in April but I just wouldn't be able to afford the childcare. As long as your salary is sufficient to make it feasible then i can't see any reason why not.

Thank you for replies.
Dh and I sat down and worked it out last night and if work agree to me doing some working from home in the holidays, I can definately return to work.
It will 'cost' me at least half my wage but I suspect that my children would benefit more from me returning to work.
I might give myself 6 months back at work and re-assess.

However, few hurdles to cross before then!