Transition: Working Mom Status

The transition back to work after having a child was probably one of the hardest decisions of my life.  After years in school working towards being a teacher, could I really consider staying home?  As the months came to an end on my maternity leave, I found myself having a very hard time leaving the little bundle of joy that I had brought into the world.  Ultimately, I had no choice but to return.

Driving to work that first day after my maternity leave ended was probably the hardest drive of my life.  Tears were in my eyes the entire ride and I spent the majority of the ride on the phone with my mother who was taking care of my son.  Upon pulling into the driveway, I took a few deep breaths, pulled myself together and prepared myself to return to work.  

Unbeknownst to me, this was not only one of the hardest decisions of my life, but also one of the best decisions I have ever had to make.  Setting foot in the classroom again after having many months off reminded me why I went to school for special education in the first place.  The immediate love and support I felt from my CTC family pulled me out of my slump.  

Each and everyday I am reminded by my students as to why this is the field I chose to pursue.  Just today, as I am writing this blog, one of my students returned from an activity outside of the classroom and placed a paper clip bracelet on my wrist.  A simple gesture that completely made my day.  

I will admit, that not every day is as easy.  Somedays it breaks my heart to leave my little boy, but the special children that I work with on a daily basis definitely help make the transition into working mom just a little bit easier.  Lauren Babcock, Teacher, Celebrate the Children