From Parent to Professional: Easing the Transition Back to Work
Returning to work after having a baby can feel like stepping into an entirely new role, especially as often it comes hot on the heels of rediscovering yourself as a new parent. It can be a whirlwind of emotions, from anxiety to excitement. After having my first child, I found myself rushing between nursery drop-offs and meetings, then trying to work from home while facing endless piles of laundry and chores. It was tough to focus on anything, and I often felt guilty from being so far away from my baby.
Add choosing to continue breastfeeding into the mix and the juggling act got even trickier! There were moments when I'd be late for everything, whether it was nursery drop-offs or work commitments, often feeling like I was never in the right place at the right time. My husband Ed faced his own challenges, including the Southern Rail strikes, which only added to the chaos! We regularly found ourselves questioning, “Is this really the best way to do it?”
That question inspired WRAP – a supportive space designed to make your return to work feel easier, more balanced and definitely less isolated.
Whether you're a freelancer brushing off your laptop, a team leader easing back into meetings, or trying to juggle nap times with client calls, remember that you're not alone in this journey. Today's parents are navigating significant transitions with lots of love, determination, and, let’s be honest, a good bit of caffeine! While every journey is uniquely yours, there are some tips to help make it feel a bit more balanced – and yes, even joyful.
Let’s dive into how to approach your return to work with confidence, clarity, and support, and how WRAP is here for you every step of the way.
1. Start With Open Conversations
Before your official return date, start conversations with your employer or clients early. You might want to explore options like flexible hours, phased returns, or role adjustments that support your new routine. Even if a phased return isn’t feasible, there may be scope for easing in via familiar projects or reduced hours initially.
The team at Raising Mamas put it simply: “Open and honest communication with your employer can help you establish a return plan that suits both you and your workplace.”
At WRAP, our on-site coworking and nursery space makes flexible returns more feasible. Parents can work just minutes away from their little ones, knowing they’re nearby and in safe hands.
2. Plan Childcare That Works for You
Securing reliable childcare early can be one of the most reassuring steps you take. Visit a few settings, ask questions, and go with what feels right for your family. The trust you build with caregivers will support both you and your child as you settle into new routines.
“Finding a trusted childcare provider can make all the difference in easing anxiety and ensuring a smoother transition,” notes Raising Mamas.
Our nursery at WRAP is designed with modern parents in mind – flexible, nurturing, and in the same building as our coworking space. It’s ideal for parents who want to stay connected without compromising on their career.
3. Take It One Step at a Time
If possible, ease into your return gradually. Starting with a few days a week or shorter hours allows you and your child to adapt more gently.
This article from June Care offers great advice here: “A phased return can help both parent and child adjust at a more comfortable pace, avoiding sudden disruptions to routine.”
WRAP’s coworking memberships are designed to be flexible – offering options from 40 hours a month to unlimited access. So you can scale up when you’re ready.
4. Navigating the Emotions
Guilt, anxiety, second-guessing – it’s all completely normal. But it does get easier.
Establishing a simple goodbye routine and packing a familiar comfort item for your child can help them feel secure. And remember, checking in with caregivers during the day can offer that all-important reassurance.
June Care reminds us: “Establishing predictable drop-off routines and reassuring your child can make the separation process much easier for both of you.”
At WRAP Nursery, we provide regular updates via our Famly portal, so you can stay connected to your child’s day even while you’re working just down the hall.
5. Be Kind to Yourself
Every return-to-work story is different. What matters most is finding your own rhythm, not measuring your pace against others.
“Giving yourself permission to prioritise self-care and embrace the transition at your own pace is key to maintaining balance,” say Working Moms Against Guilt.
Celebrate the small wins – whether that’s making a client call without being interrupted or your baby settling into nursery for the first time.
6. Know Your Rights (Dads Too!)
Maternity Action offers clear, accessible guidance for both mothers and fathers on returning to work.
Shared parental leave, flexible working requests, antenatal appointment leave – it’s not just about mums. All parents have rights in the workplace.
Understanding your rights is key to feeling confident about how and when you return.
Finding Balance, Together
At WRAP, we believe that balancing the responsibilities of parenting with a career (or simply boosting your energy levels) need not be a struggle. Our aim is to make this juggling act feel more manageable – and much more supportive.
Our light-filled coworking spaces, flexible office memberships, beautifully equipped meeting rooms and nurturing on-site nursery are all thoughtfully designed to help you rediscover your rhythm. Enjoy work, rest, and play, all under one roof.
When you need a moment to pause, regroup, or simply connect with someone who understands the pressures of being pulled in multiple directions, our team – many of whom are parents themselves – is here to help. Because going back to work shouldn’t mean facing it all alone.
Looking for more advice like this?
Visit our support page, which is filled with thoughtful and practical resources for parents managing the complexities of work and life. Be sure to check back often, or better yet, share this with someone who might need a gentle reminder that they’ve got this.
