Name: Wendy Dean
Age: 39
Job title: Managing director of http://www.babysleepanswers.co.uk/?
Industry: Internet advice and information for parents of children under 2.
Employer: Self-employed
Children: 4
Have you always worked while you had your children?
Yes
What was the motivating factor for this?
The money – before I set up my own company – now it?s the job satisfaction.
What are the best bits about staying in work while you have raised your children?
Reduced worry about the family finances. Adult conversation that doesn?t revolve around children.
If you could have your time again would you make a different choice?
I would have set up Baby Sleep Answers after my first child, instead of the fourth.
Has working and raising a family been challenging? If so how?
You bet! Four kids, my own company and a Labrador. Time is always at a premium and I have become the most organised woman in Britain.
What is available to mothers now that you wish you had access to when your family was young?
Increased maternity leave entitlement.
How have you managed to stay on top of your career with the demands of motherhood?
Hard work, time management, help of family to mind the children and employing a cleaner.?
What has been the high point along the way?
Being able to fit my work around my family commitments. I work from home, so can work the hours I like.
What is your worst experience along the way?
Going back to a job as a university lecturer after the birth of my premature twins with severe postnatal depression ? hence the career change.
Any tips for expectant mums, or mothers who feel that you can’t have a successful career and a happy family life at the same time?
Get organised ? plan in advance how and when you will do the shopping, housework etc. Find childcare that you are absolutely happy with – shop around and look at all options. And finally, don?t feel guilty.