When your maternity leave comes to an end, you'll need to decide whether you're going to return to work or not. If you do return to work, you'll have some choices to make. From securing childcare through to fitting back into the workplace, here are some tips for making your return easier.

Meet up With Colleagues

Meeting up with colleagues ahead of your return may make it easier for you to fit back in. You'll be able to catch up on the latest developments in your workplace, which will give you a chance to prepare for new projects. Seeing your colleagues may also make you excited about getting back to life in your office.

Decide on a Return Schedule

If you're not going to return to your usual working hours, decide what your return schedule should be. Your schedule may be influenced by a few factors. For example, if you don't want to place your child into childcare for full-time hours, could you work on a part-time basis? Going part-time may make the transition easier for you and your child. Alternatively, if you work in an industry with varying shift patterns, make inquiries about adjusting your patterns so they fit around your caring duties.

Find a Childcare Centre

It's worth dedicating a little time to researching the childcare centres available to you. Narrow your choices down according to how well they fit in with your working life. Look at whether they're open during the hours you're working. Additionally, consider how easy it is for you to access each one from both your workplace and your home. To get a feel for what your childcare provider is like, go to visit them in person. Finally, make sure they cater to any unique needs your child may have, such as their feeding schedule or dietary requirements.

Help Your Child Settle In

After finding the right childcare provider for your child, try giving them some tester days. If you're planning on transitioning them into a full-day schedule, take them along for shorter sessions so they can get used to their new environment. Doing this will give them the reassurance that their new environment is only temporary and that they will be returning home with you at the end of their day.

Returning to work after your maternity leave is much easier for you and your child when you take some time to plan it. Before long, you'll both settle into your new routine.