What To Do On Maternity Leave Before Baby | 6 Great Ideas for Mums-to-be
Having a baby is a surreal experience, nevertheless, it can be stressful and time-consuming, especially when the due date is drawing nearer! The tick of the clock is real and there are one million things to do.
Taking maternity leave before your baby arrives is an option and these tips may give you some ideas about what you can do while you’re on it and waiting for your baby.
The first step is to talk to your employer about taking leave. You should be entitled to up to 6 weeks leave before the expected date of birth, or earlier if agreed.
The most important thing is that you don’t feel guilty! There are many good reasons for taking early pregnancy leave. Enjoy and make the most of it! Not sure what to do? Here are six great ideas for you:
1. Host a baby shower
A great way to catch up with friends and family and update them on your pregnancy could be through a baby shower! Check out some fun, budget-friendly games that are guaranteed to keep you and your guests entertained!
2. Find a baby group
Finding a baby group that is right for you before your due date is a perfect opportunity to make friends with whom you can share the highs and lows of your pregnancy.
Moreover, choosing a baby group before your baby arrives can make life a little less hectic after the baby, as you get that little extra time to find a group that values your beliefs and attitudes. You will be preparing a strong opportunity for both you and your newborn to socialize and make friends for life!
3. Self-care
Take a breather. One of the best reasons to take maternity leave is to relax before your due date and alleviate any additional physical and mental stresses that the work and pregnancy combo can onset.
Slip into something comfortable and treat yourself to your favourite TV series and pregnancy friendly foods, or schedule a haircut and manicure. Life can be pretty hectic after the baby, so any extra time to yourself before the due date is something you won’t regret!
4. Holiday
You may not be able to go far, but it may be difficult to travel right after your pregnancy. Why not discover local treasures in your area and take the opportunity to spend some time with your partner or friends.
5. Shopping
There’s no better excuse to go shopping than pregnancy!
Take some time to ensure you have everything you need for your baby before it comes with some guilt-free shopping. Shop for things from clothes, toys, bottles and food for your baby to room furniture including a baby bed and decorations. Check out this article for a guide on just a few baby essentials!
Don’t forget self-care ( as mentioned in tip 3), and make sure you shop for yourself too! From sneaky snacks to satisfy any cravings to in-between clothes and comfy socks, shopping is important for self-care!
Don’t hesitate to grab as much free baby stuff as you can on your maternity leave, especially if you’re aiming to follow a budget.
6. Maternity Photoshoot
Take the time to find a photographer that speaks to you, and book a maternity photoshoot!
Take the photoshoot at a place significant to you, and preserve your pregnancy memories in a high quality format that can make its way into your maternity album or diary! Looking back at these after the due date is a satisfying and memorable experience!
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to take maternity leave?
Whether and when you want to take maternity leave before your due date is a personal decision and unique to every mum! Everyone’s pregnancy is different, and while some expecting mums may wish to continue working up until their due date, some pregnancies may take a greater toll on an expectant mother’s mental and physical health. Working may become more difficult, including the commute to work and the demands of your work.
Taking maternity leave before your baby arrives may be a good idea if you’re experiencing discomforts relating to pregnancy, for example sleeping difficulties, stress or pain.
Can I still take maternity leave after my pregnancy?
In Australia, you can take maternity leave before and after the baby arrives. It is worth checking with your employer to see if you are entitled to any additional leave.
Are there options for my partner?
Yes, there are! Your spouse or partner can take parental leave after your due date!
