I'm thinking about going back to work.

Before my first child was born, I was in the software industry. But I did't want to leave him at home and go to work (I had crazy work hours then). so, I just changed fields and did my course in early childhood education...volunteered at his school when he started pre-school and then started to work at another school when he started full-time school. I agree the pay was quite less than what I used to earn earlier...but I was happy this way because I wasn't putting the family on balance. Now, I'm a stay-at-home mom and plan to join the pre-school when my younger one starts.

I so understand what you're going thru. Our finances aren't as they were before, and I just hate having to worry all the time about money. I've considered going back to work, but my husband doesn't want me to. He says that he'll take another job if he has to. But that isn't fair for me to ask of him. I guess i'll just play it by ear and see how it goes and keep praying that things get better soon. Good luck and hope you make the right decision for YOU and your FAMILY. Just keep in mind that money comes and goes, but your family is the most important thing you have.

We are in that situation right now and what is hurting me the most is I cant work because of a physical ailment. If I could work I most definately would. The only job I can do is a desk job and to get a decent desk job I have to travel an hour away and often times the pay does not compinstae the gas.

thanks God till now i am never in this situation taht i need to go back to work for finances. But i am in job. I think what you are thinking is just right. this way you can earn as well as be there with your son.

When is the right time to return to work? This is inevitably a bit of a compromise. Go back too early and you'll miss out on the early months with your baby. Leave it too late and you'll be out of touch at work. Many parents have to return at about six months to fulfil maternity leave rights, but many people don't think that this is an ideal time because a baby usually starts showing separation anxiety around this time. Unfortunately, however, you may not have a choice. Whenever you decide to go back to work, make sure you are as happy as you can be with the childcare arrangements that you have made.

I've often had to think about would it be more beneficial to go back to work or stay home with my kids. Are you sure that there aren't things that you can't do at home to bring in some extra money? Maybe you could just to do some temp assignments so that you would have a break in between to stay home with your child. Have you thought about the money you would make, the money that you would pay for childcare and if it would really be worth it?