Going back to work, one piece at a time

Get to know the person caring for your child

Visit a potential childcare setting when you can. Watch how adults respond to children, and ask how they handle sleep, meals, comfort, illness and communication. source For help finding care, our childcare guide has more places to start.

Ask the everyday questions too: What should we pack? Who may collect our child? When do you call us? What happens if we're delayed? Ask about closure dates and sick-day rules so you can plan a backup.

Fill in the caregiver sheet together. Include what comforts your child, current routines, contacts and any care plan they need.

Talk through feeding before the first morning

Ask the caregiver how feeds should arrive, be labeled, stored and prepared. If you'll express milk at work, ask where you can pump privately, store milk and clean the equipment, and how breaks fit your workday. A feeding professional can help with pump questions. source

Bring any problems with feeding to your child's care team. Our feeding guide keeps preparation and storage information together.

Rehearse an ordinary morning

As a practical experiment, pack the bag and try the journey at the time you'll actually travel. Add the drop-off, parking and getting yourself to work. Change the plan where it feels rushed.

If possible, arrange a short visit with the caregiver before your first workday. Agree how and when you'll hear from them. A simple check-in plan gives you something specific to expect.

Make the evening easier too

Choose a very easy dinner for your first day. Decide who handles collection, unpacking, washing feeding items and preparing tomorrow's bag. Put those jobs on the shared responsibilities sheet.

After a few days, ask what needs changing. The first plan is allowed to be a rough draft. If the worry feels too much to carry, make room for support for yourself as well.