Going back to work

[christina1971]

I had my ds 3 months ago and am starting to get into the swing of things at home, after a period of feeling pretty depressed and inadequate (horrible birth experience didn't help). I'm a teacher and have decided to take the rest of the school year off.

The problem is I am already feeling really stressed about going back - how much or if I should cut down my hours, and give up certain responsabilities I had before having ds. I have to go and see the head in the new year to discuss this. I am frightened about not coping and wanted to know what people's experiences of cutting down were, and what sort of teaching hours you would recommend. Sorry if this sounds a bit self- pitying ; I live in France and everything seems a bit more stressful when you're away from home. Thanks for any advice.

I am not a teacher, nor do I live in France, but here is my experience. I had a year off when DS (only DC) was born. I went back to work 3 days a week in September this year, 5 days beofre DS's first birthday. By the time I went back, I was really pleased to be going back. I love my boy, but was beginning to get a little bit bored of being a SAHM. I also really enjoy my job and am really lucky to work flexi time.

I work three consecutive days, which I find gives me enough time to get the job done, but means I am also away for enough time for people to realise that I work part time. DS goes to nursery when i am at work.

The 4 days at home/ 3 days at work balance works well for me. The only down side is that I only get to do anything - bank statements, cleaning etc - when DS is asleep - so I have about 1 hour a week ! And becauseI work part time, we can;t afford a cleaner or anything. So the house is a mess, but we have great fun!

Thanks cat64, this is really useful. I had 3 days in mind as a possibility, and am really encouraged that it works for you. Good point about it being difficult to get responsability once your role changes.
I should probably try to relax into the maternity leave and chill, but keep trying to cross bridges a bit early! Hormonal! Thanks again!