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Ashley

Mom to Cecilia

Special Education Teacher

Length of maternity leave: 5-months

Childcare: Grandparents


What did you struggle with most about returning to work after having your kids?


I spent the past few years trying to better myself physically and emotionally, and I worried I would lose the energy and drive to take care of myself with so much on my plate. I wanted to become a mother so badly, but I never wanted to lose the self I’ve worked so hard to find. As it turned out, I’m more passionate than ever about job, my family, and myself. It is still a daily struggle to find time for myself, but I prioritize it and make it happen best I can.


What do you find difficult about being a working parent?


Working with young kids all day takes an enormous amount of energy and sometimes I feel like so don’t have anything left to give when I get home to Cecilia.



What do you enjoy about being a working parent?


I know one day my daughter will see that I do good work, and she’ll know her mommy helps other kids who need it. I’m so proud of the work I do, and I know she’ll be proud of me, too!


After being back at work for some time, have your views about career and family changed?


As a parent now, I look differently at the ways I need to love and educate my students. I think how difficult it must be to put your child in the hands of other adults, and trust that they will do everything in their power to keep them safe and loved.


Knowing what you know now, what’s one thing you wish you could go back in time and tell yourself as you were preparing to return to work or getting ramped up in your role?


I would tell myself that going back to work isn’t the enemy. It isn’t the dooms day we think it’s going to be. I may leave my daughter more than I really want to, but my heart is filled by being able to a job I love alongside the mothering I was born to do.


What did you choose for childcare, and how has it been for your family?


Grandmothers split days


I love that Cecilia is spending her days with the strong women who raised the two of us. I know our moms are having the time of their lives spending THEIR days with our little girl! The moms come to our house, so a lot of times I feel pressure to make sure the house is together.


We are so blessed to have close, supportive family who are able to help care for Cecilia while I made the transition back to work. Watching Cecilia light up as she sees her grandmothers in the morning made going back so much easier.

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