I’m due to return to work in a couple of months after an extended period of maternity leave. However,mysonisonly 11-months-old and I’d much rather stay at home with him. Despite this, we need the money; the job I’m returning to is well-paid and I was alwa

I have to get back to work, but feel guilty about leaving my child with a stranger

Dear Maggie Maggie says

I understand how anxious you must be feeling. Plans made to return to work after the birth of a child seem relatively simple before the birth but once you have your baby things look very different.

This precious little child’s health, safety and wellbeing are paramount. You believe that no one can care or protect your child like you can. But you are faced with practicalities now and as you are the main breadwinner if, financially, you need to work, then you must take a long, hard look at how you can manage.

Childcare is expensive but if it’s a necessity then you have to accept that. Check out all the possibilities, see a variety of carers and your instinct will most likely tell you who you can trust, who you bond with and who you feel will give your baby the love and attention you want him to have.

I think you will know very quickly if someone is caring for your child and if you can feel confident that your son will be well looked after by this person.

Make a list of questions for the interview with the prospective carer. Listen attentively, look around their home, follow your gut instincts.

It will be hard for you to leave your baby with this person at first and it’s normal to feel tearful and anxious in the first weeks but, day by day, your confidence will grow when you know your baby is being well cared for.

Most people who choose childcare as a profession do so because they love having children around. So I do hope this works out for you and you find an excellent carer for your son.