As an early years worker I feel strongly about being at home with children during the early years of a child's life. Although I do not have any children at present I will have little option but to return to work once my husband and I decide to have a family, purely because of our financial situation. My only other option is to become a registered childminder, which would enable me to earn a small income and stay at home with my own child. A more flexible approach to working would be a huge advantage, but many jobs in childcare and teaching do not lend themselves to this flexibility. Having a day off sick makes me feel guilty, let alone needing time off when a child is ill.
As an early years worker I feel strongly about being at home with children during the early years of a child's life. Although I do not have any children at present I will have little option but to return to work once my husband and I decide to have a family, purely because of our financial situation. My only other option is to become a registered childminder, which would enable me to earn a small income and stay at home with my own child.
A more flexible approach to working would be a huge advantage, but many jobs in childcare and teaching do not lend themselves to this flexibility. Having a day off sick makes me feel guilty, let alone needing time off when a child is ill.
Christina Howkins-Griffiths, Manchester
