What would you do ? (re: work and maternity leave)

MeggyO

I was asked today if I want to help teach our winter camp program, which runs during the last two weeks of December. I am of two minds about doing this:

Pro: If I do this, I will get paid for two more weeks (that I normally don't get paid), plus I will be earning more sick and vacation time that will go towards my maternity leave.

Cons: I was hoping to spend these two weeks resting and doing some nesting stuff for the baby. At this point, I will be 34 weeks pregnant. I don't know how active/mobile I will end up being. I did winter camp last year, and we went on several field trips and did a lot of art projects. I remember being on my feet a fair amount. In addition, while I will be getting paid, it is significantly less than what I am paid now (different position).

My original plan had been to take these two weeks off, go back to work for another 2 weeks or so to finish getting everything prepped for my maternity leave, then go on leave two weeks before I am due. I know if I ask DH, he is going to say that the extra money/vacation time I will earn will be really helpful, but in the end it is up to me and what I want and what feels right. I don't want to exhaust myself, but I also want to get as much time with the baby as I can before going back to work (at this point, I have enough vacation time/leave for about 9 weeks). These two extra weeks will earn me maybe a day or two more.

So...what would you do?

fricksgirl

I would not do it!!  You'll more appreciate the time off!!

skirby

When I was 36 weeks, I taught a summer writing course to advanced writers in the morning, and worked with a group of teachers at UCD on history in the afternoons. It was a bit much, but it was stuff that I really enjoyed and had fun doing. My friend is 36 weeks now, and the complete opposite - she is off work, relaxing, and enjoying every minute. I think you need to do what's right for you. I would ask myself:

1) Is there any prep involved for once you leave for the day?

2) Do you enjoy teaching the camp? Is it something that "fills your cup" so to speak?

3) Do you have a good support there, so you can skip some of the field trips, or lay low and work in other ways if you aren't feeling well?

It's not worth the extra money and work if you aren't feeling good after answering these questions.

 What an exciting time!

Celyn

34 weeks I could have done no problem.  36 weeks, not so much.  Can you swap the 2 weeks you were planning to work for the camp instead?  If so, that's what I would do.

Mrs.Wubbin

With Eloise I taught up until 37.5 weeks with little problems, I probably could have gone longer. Are you done working after the camp? If so, I would definitely do the camp. Good luck!