Summarize the following:
Remember that, unless you were planning to be a stay-at-home mom, you made the decision to balance a career and a family – and that’s a perfectly valid choice. It’s best to come to terms with your decision as quickly as possible, so don’t second guess yourself! Let go of your guilt, and you’ll be more likely to go back to work with the right mindset. Once you go back to work, your time with your baby will be limited, so use the rest of your maternity leave to bond as much as possible: hold and cuddle your baby, sing and laugh and make faces with your baby, and enjoy the extended time that you have together. There are plenty of ways to continue bonding with your baby once you go back to work. You can start preparing now. Consider:  Waking up earlier in the morning and spending some quality time cuddling with your baby before you start getting ready for the day. Turning routine chores and activities into bonding opportunities. For example, you might work to make breakfast or bath time a special shared time for you and your baby. Talking to your baby about your routine. Smiling at your baby during routine moments. The happier and more interactive you are, the more content your baby will be. Dependable childcare is crucial to your success at work, and you won’t feel comfortable unless you know that the person caring for your baby is someone you can trust.  Ask family and friends if they are available to provide childcare, or if they have recommendations for childcare providers. Ask potential childcare providers for references, and follow up to learn as much as possible about the person who may be caring for your child. If you are considering a daycare facility, go for at least one tour, and ask if you can sit in and watch a typical day. Make arrangements for back-up childcare. Ideally, a friend or relative will be able to take your baby on short notice if, for some reason, your regular childcare falls through. If not, research drop-in childcare options and ask people you know for suggestions. Check to see if your company offers childcare benefits. Some employers do offer childcare at the office; others offer financial help with the cost.
Keep a positive attitude. Bond with your baby. Establish a cuddling routine that will work once your maternity leave is over. Find someone you trust to care for your baby.