Be there to support and listen to them

Empathise with them. Tell them you know how hard it is.

I tell them that I’m not going to bury them under unwanted advice, but if they want to ask about anything, I’d be happy to share my experiences and what worked for me.

Have a chat and tell them your here if they need mum advise because you have your own

Just make them feel welcome and listen to what they share and support where you can. Listening and understanding and respect are essential in any contact

Unless I personally know the new mum, I don’t do too much at all, which sounds a bit harsh

Maybe the new Mum who goes back to work should try to maintain permanent set working hours, not shift work. It is a lot harder for Mums whose working hours and sleep patterns constantly change. Starting a new routine is hard. If possible trial it before you start work. You could try getting the person who is going to mind your baby to do so one day a week and you try a new routine. If your baby is going into childcare, maybe get your baby used to going one day a week before you go back to work. Your baby starts to ger used to being handled and fed by other people…and being in the same area at the same time. I know Mums who have started this about a month before returning to work, especially if they are going back to work more than one day a week. Its not so unsettling for baby when they are left with others when you go back to work, be it part time or full time. Baby is still likely to cry when you leave, but they tend to settle quicker if you leave quickly, not feel guilty about walking out. Some babies and toddlers cry when you leave, even if you leave them with their Grandma that they can’t get to quick enough – start swinging their feet in the car, pointing to the road they are going to go on and laughing. Yes, we still had a crying act. I was told the longer I hesitated the longer before my child settled

Also, I give advice to mums about support they can get in the community and groups they can join in the community.

I pass on my tips and my experiences and always have a friendly ear available for new mums. I would love more tips though as some mums do have a tough time when getting back to work.

Good question. I guess I try and let them know I’m here to listen if they need. I’ve been there and done it and don’t mind helping others get through it

Make them feel welcome, it’s a scary time for new mummas to leave their babies to come back to work. Let them talk about it if at all possible.