So, you’ve had some time at home with the new baby. But unfortunately, in the US mothers don’t get much time to bond with baby before its time to get back to work. Below are my tips to make it a little easier to make that transition.
If possible, do a dry run. Take the kiddo to daycare once or twice before you actually have to go back. Hopefully by the time you really do have to go back, you’ve reduced the intensity of sobbing and can actually hold an intelligent conversation. *wink, wink*
Get as much done at night as you can. The new morning routine will probably be pretty hectic so the best thing you can do is leave as little for morning as possible. Pack up bottles, pumps, your lunch, Baby’s daycare bag, etc., pick out everyone’s clothes, set out breakfast items…anything that can be done a night-do it! (I really should still be taking this advice!)
If you’ll be pumping, have an idea of what your pumping schedule will be and triple-check that you have all your parts. Maybe even buy a couple extra set or two to have at work just in case. My first day back I hadn’t gotten in touch with the lady who had the key to the Mommy Room so I ended up almost literally bursting and had to resort to using a conference room (with windows-eek!) when I finally couldn’t wait anymore.
Don’t feel bad calling to check on little one a couple times while you’re still getting used to it. Your daycare provider has seen lots of moms say good-bye to their little munchkins for the first time. They will be more than happy to assure you that everything is fine and make sure you feel comfortable with Baby in her care.
Enlist Daddy to be your housework helper for awhile. I know that when I was having a hard time with leaving Brooke at school, it helped me immensely that Keith did the bulk of the housework so I could spend time nursing & cuddling before it was time to put Brooke to bed.
Know that it will get better. Before you know it, your kiddo will run off before you can even say good-bye.
Mommies who have been there, done that – any other advice you’d like to share?
This post is linked to Working Mommy Wednesday.
Great list! Getting hubby involved and helping takes some of the load off, too!
Steph recently posted..Don’t Miss Tips For New Moms Returning To Work
Great list! Planning ahead the night before is a definite essential! It makes your morning go so much better if you’re not running around looking for bags, extra outfits, diapers, etc. (Trust me, I speak from experience…I spent many mornings in a lack-of-planning induced panic…)
Amanda recently posted..Back to Work