After a long maternity leave with baby number two, I’m preparing to head back to work. This time, I’m heading into a new job with a new company. I’m excited to start working with an awesome new team, but thinking about having to navigate a new childcare arrangement, figure out a pumping spot, etc. all has me a bit frazzled. As I’ve been mentally preparing to return, I turned to some other contributors to hear more about their top tips for making the transition back to work a bit easier! Here’s what we think can make for a smoother return, both emotionally and logistically! 

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Go back on a half day, midweek, or both! Even as I start a new job,I haven’t had a problem arranging to start back in the middle of the week, and on a half day. With my first child,  I found that the first day was mostly about meeting with my manager, learning more about changes to the company in the last few months, and using our company Mother’s Room. I had the normal tears when leaving my son, but aside from that, found that I was really happy to be back to work part time. I was lucky enough to have a lot of mom friends at work, but even if you don’t, finding a network of other moms is one of the best things you can do to feel both supported and inspired. As long as you don’t make the same dumb mistake I did, and take someone else’s breast pump home (yes, I did that, and yes, I almost died when she called me), you’ll do great! – Erin

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1. I took a little baby cap in my purse to smell the baby smell. I know that’s weird 😉
2. If you can, leave the baby with a trusted family member the first couple of days. It eases the transition before leaving them with people you may not know at daycare. Plus you can call and check in without guilt!
3. Pictures and videos on your smart phone. The more the better.
4. Pep talks with your co-workers or other mom friends throughout the day help! They understand what you are going through.                        -Kimberly

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Talk to your boss about adjusting your schedule to better meet your needs, I was able to go back to 3 10- hour days in the office and 2 5-hour days working from home for the first few months. No one in my company had ever done that, but I’m glad I asked! -Jessica

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If you are breastfeeding and planning on pumping at work purchase extra pumping supplies so you don’t have to stress about cleaning them every night. I also had two pumps and left one at my desk so I didn’t need to haul it back and forth daily Or worry about forgetting it. -Danielle

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It helped me to practice my morning routine at least a week out. That way I wasn’t running around my first day back like a crazy person. – Rebecca

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Invest in a hands free pumping bra (if pumping). Look into whether your employer will allow for a transitional period before you go back full time (I’m working 3 days a week for a little over a month before I have to be back full time, this has been a great transitional time for both my baby and me). I also took advantage of a visit day at her day care and sent her for 4 hours a day before she was to actually start. I did errands and actually went in to the office to check emails and preempt my first day back jitters. It really helped because the next morning it didn’t feel as new and scary. – Sarah

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I can definitely agree with a lot of what the other moms said, especially bringing pictures, and also keeping extra pumping parts if you’re breastfeeding (the day you forget to bring a second shield will be your last, because you’ll never make that mistake again!).

The last thing I’d add is BE GENTLE WITH YOURSELF! If the first day goes great – excellent! If not, it will probably get better. Being honest with yourself and your work about your capacity and goals will help you avoid burnout and added stress in those early days. If you’re heading back to work – good luck, and feel free to share your own tips in the comments!