Hi everyone, I’d really appreciate some advice from parents who’ve been through this.
I am planning to enroll my son in an unlicensed daycare starting April 1, 2026, when he’ll be 5.5 months old. I originally wanted to return to work in October 2026, but because the risk of only getting a daycare spot in April 2027 felt too high, I decided to apply early and return sooner if he gets in.
Although the daycare is unlicensed, they follow the same rules as licensed daycare (認可), meaning I must return to work by April 30, 2026 to keep the spot.
Some additional context:
• We are moving houses at the end of September, and until then we have to commute 2 stations + a 10-minute walk one way to daycare.
• I can WFH only 2 days a week.
• My husband can WFH every other week (1 week WFH, 1 week office).
• My mom lives with us and works part-time, and can help with childcare 3 weekdays a week.
• My job is very demanding, and I’m worried about burnout if I return too abruptly.
Leave situation:
• I have 33 days of paid leave total
• 13 days will expire by the end of this year
• I’ll receive 20 new days this year
Because of the daycare rules, I’m considering returning officially by April 30.
My questions:
- Daycare sickness & leave usage
How often do babies typically get sick after starting daycare?
Would it make sense to:
• use the 13 expiring paid leave days to extend my leave and return to work around late May 2026, or
• work 4 days a week (using 1 day of paid leave weekly), or
• return in April and just use paid leave as needed?
My main concern is balancing a demanding job with frequent daycare sickness and a long commute until we move.
- Shortened work hours vs flex time
I’m also debating whether to use shortened work hours (reduced pay) until my son turns 1.
Flex time seems to fit my job better, but I’m worried it might be too much too soon if I jump straight into it in April.
For those who’ve been in similar situations:
• Did you ease back with shortened hours?
• Or did flex time work better?
• Any regrets or things you’d do differently?
by Glittering-Village79