How to tell boss, need encouragement...

CP0979

I'm entitled to take two add'l Wks maternity leave per nj family leave act. I was only planning on taking 10 of the 12 before bc it will be unpaid but now that lo is here I don't care about the $ I want the time!

im afraid to tell my boss I want the time bc we have a big project we have pushing off till I get back and now it will be even longer. I was going to tell him I'd be willing to attend a meeting and do a little from home for the project.

so I just need words of encouragement and advice on how to ask, ie send an adorable pic of LO so he can see why I want more time, lol. For the record he's a nice guy and has kids himself but he does it make it known that this is a lot of time off! 

buttaflai

I told my boss that I intended to come back after maternity leave and vacation (8 weeks), but DON'T count me for anything for 12 weeks in case something changes. Well, I ended up going back at 9.5 weeks due to some other complications, but the expectation was set beforehand, so it really didn't matter if I did or did not take the additional time. That was probably the best advice another working mom gave me.

I would definitely bring it up sooner than later. I'm sure if you just explained it, you'll be fine. I just wouldn't delay it if you already know what you want. Good luck.

mamathefox

tell him/her now. Better to give advanced warning. Its protected time so you cannot be fired over it. Plus you are so kind to say you will help from home with the project. They know you have a kid, if your baby got sick you would be gone anyways...FX it goes well!

hboo2011

IMO, keep it as professonal as possible, and leave the pictures out of it. Maybe say you researched and realize you get 12 weeks, and aren't quite ready to come back full time after the 10 weeks previously mentioned, but would be willing to offer some help from home to get the project started until you returned.

tiffmatt

I would suggest asking your boss instead of telling him. While FMLAguidelines allow 12 weeks they generally ensure you'll remain employed, but that doesn't mean they can't fill your position and move you to a position with lower demands that allow for greater time off. The state laws will protect you but that doesn't mean there may not be bad blood if you insist on staying off the extra two weeks.
Talk to your boss, feel it out and if your boss seems to be against it take that into consideration.