Parenting Column by Natasha Sabrin Khan
Motherhood isn’t easy; neither is being a successful working woman. When these two difficult roles collide, things become pretty hard for a woman. But that doesn’t mean you have to give up on one for another – if you plan smart, it is possible to find a balance between the two.
Arranging a good caregiver
It is crucial to arrange a good caregiver before your maternity leave ends. Check references of a nanny before appointing her and let her take care of the child for a while before you go back to work. Install CCTV at home if required and ensure that you leave emergency contact numbers with the nanny. Even if you lock the door from outside, do leave a spare key with one of the neighbours so that the baby and nanny can come out in case of an emergency. If a trustworthy nanny is not available, a good daycare centre might be a better option.
Breastfeeding arrangements
If adjustments can be made, then it is best to continue breastfeeding (may be alongside formula feeding) for at least first six months. One year old Faizan’s mom, who works in the finance department at Grameenphone says, “I have nursed before going to work, during lunch break when I came home and throughout the night.” If coming home during lunch is impossible, carry a breast pump and breast milk storage bags and try to pump at mid day. If possible, send the milk to the baby or else you can store it in the office fridge. The stored milk can be used for next day’s feeding.
Support system at work
It is important to have a support system at work in terms of having understanding and helpful colleagues. Bear in mind that you might need to take off if your baby falls sick, so try to be punctual and meet all deadlines when things are well at home. Try to offer help to other colleagues with their projects if you can manage to – this will keep you in a better position if you need someone to complete your work for you when you need time off. Create a support network among female colleagues who have children of their own and can sympathise with you.
Cooperation with spouse
It is of utmost importance to have a good understanding with your spouse and it is crucial that you do not vent out your frustration and tiredness on him. Try to involve him in the process of taking care of the baby and share baby care responsibilities on alternative nights. This might be a time for you both to bond with the baby.
Use your commute time efficiently
Use the time stuck in traffic to make important phone calls, prepare your to-do list or to take a much needed nap. Be tech friendly and set reminders and alarms in your smart phone to keep you on top of things.
Be patient
Most important of all is to have patience and remember that things get easier and better both at work and home as the child grows- and children grow incredibly fast. So, take a deep breath and bear with things for the moment.