Returning to Work After Maternity Leave

For some of you, this will come as a welcome relief. You might look forward to the joys of conversing with adults again and restoring some sort normality and order back into your life. For others however, it can be a guilt-ridden and emotional affair.

Whilst on maternity leave with my first child, I remember feeling overwhelmed by the responsibility of caring for such a tiny and helpless baby. I seriously considered ending my maternity leave early, so I could return to a job that I knew how to do. However, by the time my third child arrived, I had already proved myself capable of keeping two children alive, so I thoroughly enjoyed every minute of the time I had at home with them.

Whether you are happy to return to work or not, the following tips might help that transition period run a little smoother:

• As much as you might hate to think about school during your maternity leave, it’s important to have a reasonable amount of contact with your line manager. It’s helpful to be kept informed of any major changes that occur in your school, especially if they affect your year group or department. You don’t want to be faced with any surprises on your return to work.
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• Make good use of your 10 keep in touch (KIT) days. Talk to your head or line manager about the best way to utilise them. Meetings might need to be arranged with the class’s current teacher, lessons will need to be planned and resources need preparing (we can help you with that one). If agreeable with your school, you might prefer a phased return to work. Working just mornings or afternoons for the first few weeks might be a gentler way back into your normal working routine.
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• Take time to consider your childcare options – don’t leave it to the last minute. If choosing a childcare facility, you will want your child to have some settling-in sessions before your return to work.
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• If you are opting for relatives to look after your child, make sure you have a back-up plan in case of family illness. There is nothing more stressful than trying to make alternative arrangements as you are preparing to leave for work – I speak from experience!
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• Have a trial run of your morning routine. Know how long it takes to get to your childcare provider. How long does it take to get to school from there? Be sure to factor in the explosive nappies that are guaranteed to happen just as you are about to leave the house.
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• Help reduce last minute panics by checking that your work clothes still fit. Don’t be too glum if they don’t – you now have a valid excuse to buy new clothes.
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• Have contingency plans in place for when your child is ill and can’t go to their normal childcare provider. Be aware of your school’s policy for such a situation.
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• Prepare yourself mentally and emotionally for your return. The first few weeks back will be a rollercoaster of emotions – but that’s ok! Everyone is different and you won’t really know how you will react until the time comes. Practical solutions like a phased return might help issues such as separation anxiety.
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• Go easy on yourself. There will be hiccups along the way and routines may need to be tweaked before you get it right. Don’t struggle in silence; talk to your school and solve problems together. You can do this!
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If you have any top tips about returning to school after maternity leave, why not share them with us.

Sue, a mum of three, has sixteen years teaching experience. She joined Classroom Secrets in its infancy and has been creating resources ever since. Her aim is to create stimulating resources that the children will enjoy doing.