Going Babk to Work

A., do you think that every working mom of a 3 year old is hurting her child emotionally and mentally, cheating them? If you don't, then why would you entertain the thought that you would be? Is there really a difference in all those other moms who work and put their children in preschool and you?

I realize that you don't want to leave her, but please think about what you are saying in the grand scheme of things, and it will make you feel better about your life.

Dawn

Can you babysit a couple days a week? Best of both worlds, right? I also worked in school part time with the kids. Then at a different school then theirs, but days off were the same. Is one more year really a question of sink or swim?

Also a very PT retail job at a place where you often shop can help in two ways. I know it's hard when your husband doesn't have regular hours.

:)

To answer your first two questions, in order, no and nope!

Listen, the baby's "normal" is whatever she experiences. She's not comparing you to the way you may have handled the other kids, etc. Sure, it's a transition, but you can help her work through it mentally and emotionally. This is our job as parents - to prepare our kids for life situations and greater independence. It's also a prime opportunity to develop a greater trust as she will learn to branch out socially, conduct herself w/teachers and peers and see that "Mommy always comes back to get me!" This is huge!

When our son started in the church nursery, camps, sitter, etc. it was always hard to leave. He would be crying, clinging to me, the works. But I'd always hang around (out of sight) for a bit and literally, within two minutes he had adjusted. The BEST EVER is when I go to get him and he runs out calling "MOMMY!" with a huge smile. He'll babble on about what he did, how much fun he had and we'll have big hugs. The increase in confidence is evident after each experience because he knows we won't abandon him.

She'll do great - no worries!

As for resume, I can't be of much help here, but there are several moms who can give some great tips.

Good luck to you!

My son is super social, and he is also high up on the autism spectrum. Because of daycare, we discovered this earlier than we would have. He was not symptomatic at home, but only in larger social situations. At 3, your child can communicate more, do interactive play, etc. The first few weeks will be tough because there is always an adjustment period, but she will be fine. I would suggest visiting places to see if you like them, and see if you can bring her once you've picked a couple as your best choices. That way, she can be involved in the choices and get excited about this new adventure. :)

Well, my daughter started daycare at 12 weeks old and she is 10 now and doing great! No discernible emotional or mental damage!

A resume is meant to show your marketable skills, education, and experience. Just include everything that is relevant to the job you are seeking. Don't try to "fill in" the gap with things that are not relevant. If you have completed any training or done relevant volunteer work during the years that you were a SAHM then include that.

Have you volunteered at the school you'd like to work? Have you built good relationships with the administration there? That could be as important in their hiring decision as your specific qualifications.