Back at work tomorrow after 6 years - very stressed about it!

[Flyonthewindscreen]

I am returning to work (part time 3 days one week, 2 the next) tomorrow after 6 years as a SAHM. I have DH dropping off and after school club booked (have 2 primary school aged DC), but am feeling really nervous.

Apart from generally worrying whether I can still do a decent job after such a long break (although I did do a bit of freelance stuff) I'm specifically worried that my employer will be too rigid about hours. I have to do 37 hours over 2 weeks which isn't a problem as long as I can do 8.30-4.30 rather than 9-5 as it is a longish commute and after school club ends at 5.30... No specific hours mentioned at interview and I didn't want to make it look like I was raising problems with childcare before I even started but wish I had now!

Anyone else out there with a success story about going back after a long break?

Haven't got a success story about going back after a long break as I just took maternity leave but I'm sure you'll be fine and it will work out well. It's always more worrying thinking about what might happen.

On the practical front would suggest you have a few trusted parents that use the after school club on your mobile so if you do need to stay or get delayed for travel or other reasons they can pick up for you (with you offering to recipricate).

Hi
I went back to work after a 4 year break and I was worried about whether I could still perform. Everything comes back really quickly once you are in the work enviroment so I wouldn't worry about that.

My employer is generally really flexible with hours I suppose it depends whether you are customer facing or not. Is there anything in your contract about the hours you need to be at work? I think if you want flexibility you have to show that you will be flexible for them and in return they will allow you more flexibility.

Good Luck

MLx

Thanks for replies, first day today went really well and my request to go in/leave earlier was agreed to - I offered to stay later/swap my agreed days if needed for something important, to show give and take.