Good Parenting

The reality is that after the arrival of a baby many families need that second income again as soon as possible. Finding work that accommodates both mom’s and junior’s needs can be challenging, particularly in the current economic climate. Also forcing yourself to go back to work again can be incredibly stressful when your mothering instinct is strongly telling you not to leave your baby.

My view is that there is a reason for this instinct and it should not be ignored. In addition to phenomenal development happening in those early months and years, babies are extremely dependent. Who better to nurture and protect than mom (and dad) who love baby unconditionally.

The title is something of a misnomer as what I suggest is overcoming separation anxiety by avoiding separation altogether. Make a serious attempt to find something to do from home. There are some excellent options on the internet – don’t be put off by the bad apples. The great thing about the internet is that if someone has had a bad experience with a product or money making opportunity, they’re going to write about it. Spend time researching and ask questions either directly or via unbiased forums. You don’t usually have this scope to scrutinize the boss in a regular job. Too often there is a power imbalance at your expense – everything great at first, then the occasional request to stay on late, then the expectation to stay late… Those are hours you could be with your baby and you’re not going to get them back.

While the last thing any mom needs is to be given the ‘guilts’ over placing her baby in child care while she goes to work, the least she can do is seriously investigate the wealth of work-at-home options available on the web.