I have a new baby (due any day now) and will be transitioning from a 40 hour workweek to working at home as a Medical Transcriptionist after completing my education at a wonderful online school (MTACC). I am looking for any advice on managing a baby and home employment. I just recently set up my office to get ready, but I am nervous about how to handle all of the changes.

By Juli4 on Saturday, September 4, 2004 - 01:00 am:

i dont know about anyone else and I may be going out on a limb but it seems to me that MTathome is trying to advertise or recruit. All her posts seem to imply that. what do you think?!!!

By Cocoabutter on Saturday, September 4, 2004 - 05:45 pm:

I used to do daycare at home. I had a routine down, but it took a while to get it in place. I wouldn't expect that you will be able to start working right away as soon as you come home with the baby. You will be too tired and you could getfrustrated, and the only way to take care of yourself to assure that you will be good for the baby is to get that rest. But, you've alreay been through that a couple of times, right? ;)

I remember that my son stopped needing middle-of-the-night feedings at around four months of age. Then I had much more energy because my sleep wasn't interrupted. So, in the meantime, I would start slowly. You don't want to push yourself trying to get work done when the baby is napping if what you really need is sleep. Start gradually and go with the flow. Ask someone for help if you would like, whether it would be a grandma or a neighbor, or a teen who could use a couple of extra dollars.

Your baby and your at-home-work are both parts of your life, and are not exclusive of one-another. Don't expect to be able to get your work done without interruptions. It can ve frustrating, but once you get used to being interrupted, you won't get as frustrated.

That's what I learned for myself, anyway!

By Cocoabutter on Saturday, September 4, 2004 - 05:51 pm:

Juli,

All two of her posts seem to imply to me that she is starting something new and is excited and apprehensive and in need of information and support.

By Mtingmom on Tuesday, September 7, 2004 - 12:50 pm:

Although I don't have a little one at home, I do work at home w/my 12 yr. old DD. We also home school. It can be so challenging but it is very doable.

First and foremost, don't forget about YOU! Take care of yourself and don't forget about long walks alone and bubble baths! LOL!!

Next, work around baby's schedule. When baby is sleeping you should grab a quick 20 minute nap then do some work. I think a new mom needs extra sleep.

I'd also consider hiring someone to come in and help you on a regular basis so you can transcribe.

Best of luck to you!

Sandy
SAHM WAHM
Teach AHM

By Feona on Wednesday, September 8, 2004 - 07:04 am:

I agree. You can't work 40 hours a week with a new baby. You would just neglect the baby. You need to get help in at least 30 hours a week.

By Dawnk777 on Wednesday, September 8, 2004 - 02:34 pm:

LOL! I worked 40 hours with a new baby. Of course, she was going to daycare during the day when I slept and when I worked days. She didn't sleep much at the daycare, so on my days off, she took 3 hour naps, so I had time to rest or get something else done.

3 hour naps did not happen with my second one, though, and by that time the older one was 2-1/2 and not needing naps so much anymore. She would stay awake and trash her room! LOL!