Christine,

Making the transition to working mom is bound to have more than a few rough spots but don't let your fears overwhelm you. Most of the women I've talked to think the key to juggling is getting organized and getting your family to pitch in.

First, try to plan ahead as much as possible. Since you're going to have to leave in the morning just like the kids, get as much ready as possible the night before. Cook big batches of meals when you have the time and freeze them for quick dinners.

Second, at least two of your kids are old enough to pitch in. Give them responsibilites for things they can handle. Make taking care of the house and each other a family thing. One woman I know has a chart of chores that each child gets assigned each week on a rotating bases. The one who has the least fun things gets to choose special deserts or a treat for the week. It gives the kids a sense of responsibility and makes them feel like you're all working as a team.

Third, don't try to be superwoman. You don't have to be as good a housekeeper as you were when you were home all the time. Spending time with your kids when you're home is more important than chasing dustballs under the bed.

Finally, children are marvelously resilient. If you treat your new career as an adventure and the changes you all are going through as new challenges and learning experiences for your family, so will your children. As I said, there will be bumps in the road, but keeping a positive attitude and working together will make you stronger as a family.

Working together we can make a difference.
-- Cathy Feldman

I don't know why women in this society so often perceive themselves as living alone with their children. So let me ask you, how does Daddy plan to chip in here?

When Mom is ready to transition from at-home to working Mom, Dad better transition in the opposite direction - less time at work, more time at home.

BTW - congratulations on your achievement, getting your bachelor's!

Why should the home life be so much more chaotic - why shouldn't dad be able to help keep it just as nice as mom did alone - he's a grown-up, right? With Dad around, the kids shouldn't feel lonely and resentful, they should have quite a bit of fun - if they get Dad part time and Mom part time, they get the best of both worlds.

As usual, in order to make things work, you have to involve your *partner* - i.e. Dad.

I'd also like to add that even though Dad at this point probably makes a lot more money than you, don't let this stop you from getting a more equitable arrangement, so that you both work *and* take care of your children. Your job is important to *you*, and it's good for the kids to see you functioning successfully in the outside world - don't let some extra $$$ stop you from doing what you want. Being fulfilled as a woman makes you a better Mom in the end.

Good luck! Keep us posted.
-- Liv

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