Top Tips for Returning to Work When Your Children Start School

Many moms chose not to return to work as soon as they have children. The few years before the kids start school can be a fantastic time. You get to spend time with your children, watching them grow. But, it can also be incredibly stressful and hard work. Many parents look forward to their children starting school so they can do something for themselves again, outside of the home. However, after a five-year break (longer if you’ve got more than one child) it can be tough both to find work and get back into the swing of things when you do. Here are some tips to help.

Change Jobs

Returning to the same role may seem like the easiest option, but it isn’t always. A lot will have changed while you’ve been away. There’ll be new staff and new ways of doing things so you may find it hard to settle back in. Many find it easier to return to a different role in the same industry or change careers completely. A lot of nurses, for example, study online doctoral nursing programs and go on to become researchers or teachers instead of MSNs, as it allows them greater flexibility.

Brush up on Your Skills

Even if you plan on staying in the same job, brushing up on your skills and knowledge with an online degree such as an MSN to DNP online is a great idea. A lot of processes will have changed and new knowledge uncovered, so studying before you go back can give you a brilliant head start while also helping you to feel more confident.

Update Your CV

A large career break on your CV isn’t good, so make sure you explain it. Taking time off work to have children isn’t a bad thing, but make sure you sell your skills. As a stay at home mom, you must have been incredibly organized and you’ll have the ability to work well under pressure. Think of any other skills you have and list them in a key skills section. Motherhood is hard, you’ll have learned a lot whether you realize it or not.

Get Organized

Think about what you are going to need. Will you be able to do school runs? Or do you need help? Will you need after-school childcare? Start looking for trusted childcare providers as soon as you can to make sure you are ready.

Have a Trial Run

Once you know where you will be working and have arranged any childcare you need, start with some trial runs. Put your work clothes on in the morning, take the kids to where they need to be, then spend the day out of the home until the time you will be finishing work. Make sure you’ve got enough time for pick-ups and drop-offs and that everyone is happy.

Give Yourself Time

Going back to work is a huge change. It’s going to take some time for you and the rest of your family to adjust. Take your time. You may hate it to start with, but give it a chance.

If you are thinking about returning to work, take your time and speak to your partner before you commit to anything. It’s a big adjustment, but it can be well worth it. Good luck!