I thought I was being excessively organised to visit and register on the waiting lists of about seven nurseries way back in September, before Imogen was more than a large bump! However, all of those nurseries still have no place and I am told I am unlikely to get a place until next summer. What a nightmare!
There’s pressure on me from myself, work and also financially to go back to work, but I’ve been finding it impossible to find childcare for Imogen - or at least a nursery I like.
Back to the drawing board with widening the search - need desperately to find something suitable earlier. May even need to consider a child minder, which isn’t an issue, I just prefer a nursery at this age to ensure she has the interaction with lots of other children and people. I think as well, secretly, I worry she will prefer the child minder to me if there is only one person taking care of her - more paranoia about returning to work, no doubt!
Well, I think I’ve now had every debate mentally with myself about the pros and cons of returning to work. Overall, I know it’s the best for me and also for Imogen as I believe nurseries are great environments for babies. I know that personally, if I stayed at home Imogen would come out with me as I try to do my chores as she does now and whilst there is some level of stimulation for her in this, it won’t interest her forever; it rarely interests me!
Plus it will give me some time on my own and I truly find work enjoyable - or at least I did! This is the hardest bit to write in black and white as it makes me feel like a traitor to motherhood to even suggest that time away from my baby may be a good idea. However, I know it’s what is right for our family and will work for us - and if it doesn’t, then I can change things later!
Also, I am fortunate enough to be able to go back to work 4 days a week and am really looking forward to spending that 5th day with Imogen, avoiding chores and indulging us with activities we can do together.
The keeping in touch day really helped as well as the lack of confidence I suddenly found myself with in a business environment has been tackled. Although I’m sure the first day back will be like starting school all over again!?
