After family leave

Some people choose to return to the same job after family leave, some may look for new work, and others elect to return to their studies or study something new. No matter the choice, the change from caring for your child to resuming your career, business, job search or studies can seem like a monumental shift.

If you feel uncertain about your situation and skills, remember that you won’t forget everything you know even if you are absent from working life every now and then.

Read more about balancing your work with family life at Omaperhe.fi.Opens in a new window. This page also contains information on various flexible work solutions that can help you cope with your new family life.

Typically, the breastfeeding parent returns to work when they are still regularly breastfeeding their child. You do not need to give up breastfeeding just because you want to resume your work or studies, and also do not need to postpone your return just because you breastfeed.

If necessary, discuss with your employer where you could pump and store your milk at the workplace. 

For more tips on continuing to breastfeed alongside your work or studies, see the website of the Finnish Association for Breastfeeding Support (in Finnish).Opens in a new window.

You must apply for a place in early childhood education and care at least four months in advance. However, you can apply for a place at an even earlier point in time. Your child is also entitled to early childhood education and care even if you are unemployed or a student.

After returning to work, you can receive support for caring for your child at home if

• you look after your child at home for part of the week
• you hire a day care provider to look after your child at home.

Learn more about different options

• Child care and childhood education – Suomi.fi
• Child care allowances – KelaOpens in a new window.
• Twins and triplets in early childhood education and care – Finnish Multiple Births Association (in Finnish)Opens in a new window.