I gave both of my children the same amount of "mum at home time" and went back to work part time when they were both around one year old and full time work when they were between two and three. I don't deal well with being at home all day...I get bored and find being a full time mother enough to sustain me mentally.
I didn't have to go back to work when I did, as I was married at the time, but now as a sole parent, I absolutely need to work full time, and have done ever since my husband and I separated in 2002. It was difficult when my youngest was in day care, as they seem to pick up all sorts of germs there, and I was the one who would have to take days off work to care for her. But this year she started school and we moved to the city, and I have negotiated more "child-friendly" hours with my new employer, so I get to pick them up from school two afternoons a week. So we catch up, do homework, have afternoon tea, chat....
I think it's whatever suits the individual. It's a life choice, and it's an individual choice. And it helps to have an understanding employer!
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