What To Do During A Lockdown While On Maternity Leave?

This blog post provides a list of 25 activities and things to do while on maternity leave, both before and after your baby arrives. It also includes tips for preparing for maternity leave during the pandemic, such as how to get paid during maternity leave in the US, what rights you are entitled to, and how to proactively work with your employer to navigate systemic red tape around leave.

Maternity leave is the period when a mother stops working after giving birth, adopting, or starting to foster a child. Women use this crucial time to recover from childbirth, and organizations need to be prepared to meet the unique challenges for the pregnant working parent. Thoughtful pregnancy leave management is one of the best tips for going back to work from maternity leave during COVID-19.

The first few weeks of maternity leave can be challenging, but it is essential to remember that you are not failing and that you are being asked to do the impossible right now. To ensure no mom or dad feels lonely or stuck, there are some fun ideas to make the most of your maternity or paternity.

Organizations should be prepared to meet the unique challenges for the pregnant working parent and should be mindful of their needs. The best advice is to tell people you are back, phone them, put meetings in their diaries, and generally remind them.

In the weeks immediately after having a baby, it is important to spend the first week in bed, the second week on the bed, walk, match jammies with baby, take pictures, go to a park and stare at trees, weather dependent, and yell at your dog for barking at everything. While maternity leave during a pandemic sounds like a nightmare, it can actually be the biggest COVID blessing.

How Many Weeks Pregnant Should I Go On Maternity Leave?

The standard recommendation for maternity leave is for women to start taking leave about 4 to 6 weeks before their due date to rest and prepare. In some cases, particularly with high-risk pregnancies or complications, leave may begin earlier—up to 11 weeks before the due date. Although many women work right until their due dates, if they experience pregnancy-related illness, their leave will commence at that time. On average, U. S.

women take about 10 weeks off after giving birth, though 12 weeks is often viewed as the standard due to the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), which guarantees 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave for eligible employees.

Maternity leave varies, and many women choose to start their leave between 32 to 36 weeks of gestation. While some moms aim to work as long as possible, others may prefer a predetermined leave date. It is typically recommended that mothers take at least six weeks off following childbirth to recover, particularly if there are complications or a C-section, which may require eight weeks. Federal and state laws govern maternity leave, and while FMLA provides this protection, eligibility can be limited.

Maternity leave length and the ability to take time off depend on personal and medical circumstances, and many women combine maternity leave with parental leave for a longer period of absence from work.

How Can I Help A New Mother During Unpaid Maternity Leave?

Government assistance programs like WIC, SNAP, and some state disability programs can aid women facing food and other expenses during unpaid maternity leave. Community nonprofits also provide support through food banks, newborn layettes, and other resources for new mothers. While maternity leave grants exist, they are awarded to institutions, not individuals, necessitating an application process. To manage unpaid maternity leave, women should take several proactive steps:

1. Understand their legal rights.
2. Plan personal time off.
3. Purchase disability insurance.
4. Strategically evaluate financial resources, including crowdfunding options.

It is crucial to note that maternity leave typically does not qualify for unemployment benefits, requiring mothers to find alternative income sources or reduce expenses during this period. Maternity leave can serve as an opportunity for women to bond with their newborns and also engage in side hustles, such as freelancing. Numerous resources are available to assist pregnant women in budgeting effectively. It's essential to plan ahead, negotiate paid leave options with employers, and utilize available classes and forums for support.

The FMLA offers up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave, while Paid Family Leave (PFL) can provide up to eight weeks of partially paid leave, promoting maternal and infant health during this transitional period.

How To Keep Yourself Busy On Maternity Leave?

Maternity leave is a precious time to bond with your newborn and embrace new experiences. To maximize this period, focus on getting to know your baby, asking for help, and leaving work at work. Utilize a structured day by planning one outing or activity, allowing yourself ample time afterward to relax and admire your little one. As the initial weeks can feel overwhelming, it’s essential to strike a balance between motherhood and self-care. Engaging in activities keeps your mind active and enriches your experience while navigating maternity leave.

Consider activities such as exploring baby products, preparing your home, or making a comprehensive diaper bag checklist. Take walks around your neighborhood, enjoy some binge-watching, or connect with fellow new moms to share experiences. Create small daily goals to give your routine structure while ensuring you also prioritise rest and bonding with your baby.

You can nurture friendships by scheduling regular lunches with coworkers or loved ones. To maintain your mental health, partake in hobbies, join mom groups, or go on day trips. Document these moments in a baby journal, practice meditation, and even try swimming. Focus on yourself, stay social, and establish a plan for when you eventually return to work. Enjoy your maternity leave fully, as it’s a vital time for both you and your newborn.

What To Do On Maternity Leave?

Here’s a concise list of 25 activities to consider during maternity leave, focusing on making the most of this special time. Firstly, think about planning your day around a single outing or activity, allowing the rest of the day for bonding with your baby—whether that means watching, resting, or taking a break for yourself.

This list encompasses both practical and enjoyable suggestions. Start by preparing for your time off; consider taking photos of your baby bump or spending moments with family. Cooking and organizing can keep you productive pre-baby. Once the baby arrives, your focus shifts toward settling into motherhood.

While your leave can be around 12 weeks, depending on eligibility, it’s essential to make each minute count. Engage in activities that help you adjust, such as inviting friends, joining mommy groups, or even tackling small chores to maintain a sense of accomplishment. Set small, daily goals like showering or stepping outside for fresh air.

Don't forget to indulge in self-care—resting is crucial. When you have moments alone, explore hobbies like crafting or reading. Lastly, prepare your home for efficiency by decluttering and meal prepping for easier days ahead. Maternity leave is an opportunity for reflection, bonding, and self-discovery, so embrace every moment!

What Is The Longest Paid Maternity Leave?

Bulgaria offers the longest maternity leave globally at 58. 6 weeks, followed by Greece with 43 weeks and the United Kingdom with 39 weeks. Other countries providing significant maternity leave include Slovakia (34 weeks), Croatia and Chile (30 weeks), and the Czech Republic (28 weeks). The duration of maternity leave and pay varies significantly by country, state, and employer, with only eight states in the U. S. providing publicly funded paid maternity leave: California, Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island, Washington, and Oregon.

Typically, maternity leave in the U. S. is around 12 weeks, primarily unpaid, and many workers are ineligible. The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) allows for 12 weeks of unpaid leave but does not mandate paid leave, making the U. S. stand out among high-income countries. Research shows that many American mothers take less time off, with only 25% taking nine weeks or longer, likely due to insufficient paid leave. President Biden's proposed $225 billion package aims to address this issue by permitting up to 12 weeks of paid leave.

Comparatively, Bulgaria not only has lengthy leave but also compensates 90% of the employee’s salary, starting 45 days before delivery. Other noteworthy countries include Norway and Slovakia, with generous paid leave policies.

Are You Stuck With Maternity Leave?

In the U. S., guaranteed paid maternity leave is largely nonexistent, leaving parents to contend with employer-specific offerings. Federal law does not mandate maternity leave; instead, protections vary by state, with the only federal safeguard being unpaid leave under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA). Some employers may provide paid leave via company policies or short-term disability, and states like California, Rhode Island, and New Jersey have active paid leave policies.

Pregnant employees at companies with 15 or more employees are protected against pregnancy-based discrimination. Many moms face questions about leave duration and timing for informing employers about pregnancies. Maternity leave often involves navigating systemic red tape and requires understanding complex legal frameworks. While maternity leave is colloquially viewed as a respite, it often entails significant adjustive challenges and stressors. Parents can typically take 12 weeks of paid maternity leave, generally available only to mothers, while paid parental leave can extend to 35 weeks and be shared between parents.

Finally, there’s a focus on planning for maternity leave and anticipating career implications during and after this critical period. Overall, it is vital for parents to proactively engage with their employers and understand their leave options.

What Are You Supposed To Do During Maternity Leave?

To make the most of maternity leave, it's essential to balance self-care and social interaction. Start by sending out birth announcements and thank-you notes, then establish regular weekly lunches with work friends and your husband. Aim for daily walks with your baby and dog, and invite non-work friends and family to meet your newborn. Understand your maternity leave rights, explore available benefits, and learn how to communicate effectively with your employer. Proactive planning can help navigate the complexities of leave policies.

Consider activities for your leave, such as maintaining a baby journal, hiring a photographer, and creating routines. Socialize with other moms, visit local parks or cafes, and tackle minimal cleaning tasks to stay active. Don’t hesitate to ask for help when needed and prioritize small daily goals, like personal hygiene and getting fresh air. Embrace self-care practices like quiet baths and yoga to nurture your mind and body. Lastly, let the outside world wait while you bond with your newborn, allowing for moments of tranquility amidst the new responsibilities of motherhood.

How Can I Survive Maternity Leave Without Pay?

Surviving unpaid maternity leave requires diligent effort and strategic planning to minimize financial stress. Start by understanding your rights and the laws surrounding maternity leave. Apply for local grants for financial assistance with bills, and reduce everyday expenses like childcare, housing, and medical costs. Here are key steps to prepare: 1. Familiarize yourself with your legal rights. 2. Strategically plan your personal time off. 3. Consider purchasing disability insurance.

4. Develop a financial plan, determining how much you need to save or raise. Explore options like short-term disability insurance, and utilize state benefits if available. Expectant mothers should save to cover any salary gaps and seek support from family or community resources. Make a detailed action plan to ensure you can enjoy your maternity leave without financial strain. Unfortunately, the U. S. lacks guaranteed paid maternity leave, making preparation crucial.

Consider side hustles, minimize unnecessary expenses, and explore employer negotiations for paid time off or additional benefits. By planning ahead and maximizing available resources, it’s possible to manage unpaid maternity leave effectively.

How To Make Money During Unpaid Maternity Leave?

Starting a blog is a favorite way to earn money from home, especially for those on maternity leave. Various options exist, such as selling printables on Etsy, transcription work, freelance writing, or becoming a virtual assistant and bookkeeper. Freelance writing stands out due to its abundance, making it a reliable choice for supplemental income. To prepare for unpaid maternity leave, it’s essential to understand your rights, plan the use of personal time, and explore available government or private financial assistance.

Creative opportunities can include childcare services or contract jobs through platforms like Upwork for those with specialized skills. While navigating this period, budgeting adjustments and exploring local resources can ease financial strain. Freelancers can tap into their skills through writing, virtual assistance, or crafting. Overall, identifying ways to generate income while on maternity leave not only helps financially but also allows parents to make the most of this valuable time.

How To Make Money Fast On Maternity Leave?

Boosting your income during maternity leave is feasible and essential for financial stability. Consider what skills and hobbies you already possess and seek ways to monetize them. Options include applying for childcare credits, engaging in market research, or offering domestic services. You can also turn your home into a side-income source by starting a blog or becoming a proofreader, which is a niche many find rewarding. Other viable methods include selling unwanted items, freelance writing, virtual assistance, and taking online surveys, which can provide reliable income streams.

Explore freelance opportunities on platforms like Upwork for skills like bookkeeping or video editing. You can also start a blog, sell printables on Etsy, or become an affiliate marketer. Balancing income generation with parenting requires smart time management, so prioritize tasks that align with your existing schedule. Embrace these flexible ideas to adapt to your new family life while maintaining financial responsibilities. Ultimately, there are numerous ways to supplement your income during this precious time without compromising your parenting duties.

What Are You Allowed To Do On Maternity Leave?

During maternity leave, individuals can opt to work using "keeping in touch days," which may include attending training or meetings, for which they should be compensated at least at minimum wage according to their contract. The Pregnancy Discrimination Act of 1978 ensures that pregnant women have the same rights as other employees with medical conditions, applicable to employers with 15 or more employees. However, there is no federal mandate for paid parental leave, and state regulations vary significantly.

The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) provides up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave for eligible employees after childbirth or adoption but only applies to certain employers. Some states, such as California, have more generous policies, offering extensive disability and family leave. Maternity leave is the time mothers take off work to recover from pregnancy and bond with their newborns. During this period, it’s essential to maintain social connections, engage in personal activities, and manage household tasks.

While on leave, take time to read, rest, and document experiences in a baby journal. Additionally, staying connected with friends and family is vital to avoid feelings of isolation. Ultimately, it’s important for new parents to balance work and personal time effectively during their maternity leave.

Is Unpaid Maternity Leave Worth It?

A literature review highlights significant benefits of paid maternity leave over unpaid leave, finding that mothers receiving paid leave are over 50% less likely to be re-hospitalized. For many, particularly self-employed individuals, maternity leave can be entirely unpaid, leading to financial strain. One mother shared her experience of working hard during pregnancy to secure a good contract, allowing her to focus on one client and manage financially through her unpaid leave.

The excitement of a new child can turn into financial stress, especially without pay during maternity or paternity leave. Moreover, a survey shows that 51% of U. S. parents face the same unpaid maternity leave challenge, and many must plan carefully to navigate the financial implications. Some parents use accrued PTO or short-term disability, while others rely on savings, loans, or government benefits to bridge the gap. Unfortunately, the U. S. only guarantees unpaid leave under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), which applies to limited employees.

Studies indicate that paid maternity leave greatly improves maternal and infant health by alleviating financial stress. With only 19% of workers having access to paid leave, many families struggle, with 74% of women lacking savings after eight weeks of unpaid leave. Creating a flexible financial plan is essential for managing the demands of unpaid maternity leave effectively.