Some thoughts on identity. Before E was born, everything in my world revolved around teaching, so when I began my mat leave (4 weeks before E made his appearance) I felt absolutely lost. I was constantly forwarding emails & checking up on people to see if they were ok without me!

Fast forward to E being born and we were thrown into lockdown. My old life and professional self were a distant memory: my little boy had stolen my entire heart and I needed to spend time bonding with him. Never mind the fact I had a new cloth nappy addiction to focus on!

Autumn term has come around so quickly, and now I have to juggle these two identities at the same time. I have to work out how to be E’s mum, and still give him my whole heart, whilst also being a source of constancy for the young people I care for and be there for my colleagues.

I’m not sure entirely how I’m going to do that yet - the weight on my shoulders feels heavy! But I know that, given time, I’ll find my groove. I have amazing colleagues, the most wonderful family and the best support network https://abs.twimg.com/emoji/v2/... draggable="false" alt="😊" title="Lächelndes Gesicht mit lächelnden Augen" aria-label="Emoji: Lächelndes Gesicht mit lächelnden Augen"> Never mind the fact my little boy rocks!

I just wanted to share this as I’ve seen so many parents going back to work for autumn feeling similar - and I’m sure it brings back memories for others who’ve been there! @maternityCPD