maternity leave

Guest Post by Joyce Brister.

What is more fun and more exciting than a new addition to the family? Having a baby is an exciting time, but may also be somewhat stressful and tiring. The addition to your family of a new baby requires some planning ahead. One of those things that you will want to plan ahead is your maternity leave.

Depending on how long you have for your maternity leave, you’ll want to begin planning to take time off about midway through your 8th month. Firstly, you’ll be more than ready for a break once you’re carrying all of that extra weight. Secondary to that, about midway through the 8th month, you will begin to need more rest, as well as to want to take time to plan the new nursery, or to attend to other things around your home.

Special Thanks to Guest Blogger, Liz Sacks of DIYparenting.

Maternity leave is one of the most precious periods of our lives. It’s the beginning of another life, a foundation for our future parenting, and as such, we want to make the most of every moment. Here are just a few ways that you can get the most out of your leave before the inevitable return to work:

1.Think ahead. If you want a maternity leave that extends past 6 weeks, you may need to cover your expenses, as most employers pay for only a limited amount of time of maternity leave, if they offer pay at all. At the beginning of your pregnancy, begin cutting your budget down as much as possible, and saving money immediately. Law requires that your job must be held for a minimum of 12 weeks while you are on maternity leave. There are provisions for this law that you may need to know before starting maternity leave. Each employer is different, and may have more or less friendly policies regarding maternity leave. Know your rights. (Read about your maternity rights: Understanding Basic Maternity Leave Laws) [Read more…] about Six Ways to Make The Most Out of Your Maternity Leave