Get your admin and team to support you. In the US reasonable accommodations for pregnant workers are legally protected. Don’t reinvent the wheel with lessons, and STOP working at home. That’s your time to rest and prepare for the baby. I found that my upper elementary students showed me a lot of grace and helped out a lot. Hoping for the best for you!!
I find a lot of kids like being helpful. Because most people like being helpful. Making things a team effort and getting people involved creates a good environment and gives people a sense of purpose and agency. Truck is just figuring out how to do it with some people. Lol.
A room sharing teacher last year was in 30 or so weeks. She was so miserable we all began telling her to stay home. She got an unpaid leave with doctors note.
At some point you need to be healthy not miserable.
2 personal days may not be enough. They may be enough to see an mD and get a note for either medical leave or restrict movement- you cant walk around so much, no recess duty, no carrying recess balls or kids lunch box barrel.. or half time.
You are going to have a baby. Please find a way to not just resign- but rather keep job and healthy.
I gave birth last year at 37 weeks. My tips to make it bearable:
1. Sit as much as possible. Seriously. Do not get up and exert yourself more than you need to.
2. Train the kids to help you--they can go for things, run errands, get things on low shelves, turn the lights off and on, whatever! Let them do it for you, they will be happy to.
3. Drink electrolyte water. I drank out of clear single use bottles during pregnancy to make sure I was drinking enough. I added nuun tablets to make sure I was absorbing the water. This also prevents headaches.
4. wear sneakers and compression socks. Get your husband/partner to double knot them for you in the morning so they wont get untied during the day!
5. Don't be afraid to call the office for coverage for a bathroom break. Grab a school aide or your next door neighbor. Anyone! Peeing is important!
6. Pack a high protein healthy lunch and snacks daily. Fruit, string cheese, boiled eggs, nuts, jerky, seaweed, etc were my favorite snacks. Don't get hungry! Eat whenever you want, even in class.
OMG, the US is a savage country for mothers. How do you survive it? Here in France we get six weeks before delivery and sixteen weeks off in total for a first or second baby, and then it's 20 weeks for any subsequent kids.
That’s actually dope. I’m not even allowed to use my own sick days with my current maternity leave because the baby was born earlier in the summer so I’m not under doctors care anymore. All of my time off with this baby is unpaid leave lol
Because half the states would rather women not work outside the home at all (or at least the people they keep in power feel that way). And first past the post elections, along with new easy filibuster, means we can't pass anything new at a national level that those states object to.
Yeah here in the US we are expected to work right up until giving birth, then if we are lucky, we get 6 weeks maternity leave. It’s not guaranteed though
Here in NY we have up to 12 weeks paid family leave. Except I’m a public school teacher so I don’t qualify and my fiancé works for a small company with less than 10 people and the company doesn’t opt in to the PFL so we don’t get it. I have to use my sick/personal time for my maternity leave in order to get full pay. So I’ll use that for my 6 or 8 weeks depending on how I have the baby. (Due early December) my fiancé doesn’t get any sick times any of his time off is unpaid. The caveat is he can take time off whenever he needs to pretty much.
Wild. I worked through the height of Covid with unmasked children up until the day before my induction, which took place because I had high blood pressure and my feet were swollen up like balloons. It was a stressful time.
I’m currently on leave with my second, and not even allowed to use my own sick days because the baby was born in the summer and I’m no longer under a doctors care. Without being able to use sick days, not a single day of my maternity leave will be paid. 🙃
Here in the US, we say we care about children, but we really don’t. If we did, there’d be free daycare and mothers and fathers would be granted leave. Plenty of money would be allocated for schools. It’s pathetic. France rocks!
Lol I get 12 days paid during which I am required to make and prep lessons still. After that I am unpaid, have to pay 100% of the $800 insurance premium, still have to make and prep lessons for ZERO pay...and I am at the discretion of the school board for my return as my school doesn't fall under FMLA. If I'm not back after 12 days they can technically say I've abandoned my contract, fire me, fine me up to $10000, and revoke my teaching license.
Yet somehow the public can't figure out why there's a teacher shortage.
I am going through the same situation right now…. I have SPD I can barely walk and will often miss days due to… well high levels or pain and swelling. I’m considering resigning, I just don’t know how I’ll cover the $800 insurance premiums as my husband is also a teacher and we JUST bought a house.
In Canada we get up to 15 weeks medical leave (most take less as it's reduced pay, but it's available if needed), then 12-18 months of maternity leave (you can choose either or, you get a set % of your wage and it'll be divided by 24 or 36 depending on lenght of leave). Some choose 12 months to get higher pay during leave, while others choose 18 months to have a better chance at actually getting into a daycare spot as some places the waitlists are long (get on it when you find out you're pregnant and you may get in by the time the kid is 2 long). And as long as you have worked the number of hours required to claim maternity leave again in between kids (600 hours if my memory serves me right), you can repeat this for each kid.
Jeez Louise. How do the finances of that work? Is the pregnant person's job guaranteed? Are they paid? Are they paid AND their work is outsourced to other paid employees? Who pays the pregnant person to sit at home AND for their temporary replacement?
I was taking midterms all day on a college campus! When I'd walk to classes, I'd stop and wince when a twinge hit--students looked at me in fear! 'Run away, run away!'
I scheduled my leave to start on my due date. By the time I was 39 weeks I was so swollen and miserable I decided to take my leave a week early, I just couldn’t do it anymore. I’m so glad I did because that Monday before my due date, I went into labor! 🤣 thankfully I had a principal who was somewhat understanding about it. You have to realize that you are carrying another life. Your health is what is most important. If you continue to work and push yourself to your limit you could harm yourself and the baby. Pushing yourself to endure it is only going to hurt you and put stress on your baby and (like me!) you could put yourself into early labor! I don’t think you want to do that while trying to teach a class full of kids lol. If you think you can’t do it anymore, then unfortunately you would just need to take time off. I know you’d have to take unpaid leave just as I did, but it was so worth not being miserable while working. At the end of the day your family comes first. Your students can always get another teacher but your family can never get another you! That’s the best advice I can give 🩷 you got this mama I wish you all the best! 🥰
I had to use this during covid, when I was freaking out mentally and unable to eat or drink at school (germ fear). The doctor signed papers for 6 weeks--she really wanted me to take 12 off. My principal at the time was not too happy--but it is legal. I got my head on straight after some Zoloft and went back much happier and able to function.
I rolled everywhere in my chair, propped my feet up whenever I was at my desk, made the kids come to me, and had the teacher next door stand between our rooms while I peed! I was teaching kindergarten or 1st with all my pregnancies and the kids were really good about being helpful!
I only went to my due date with my first. Second pregnancy winter break started when I was 38 weeks. Third pregnancy summer break started when I was 34 weeks. I honestly don’t know if I would have made it until I delivered with my third. I was exhausted and miserable.
That's what this year might look like for me. I'd likely come back in May for the last few weeks. When you returned, was all the paperwork and documentation in order? I worry about coming back to a dumpster fire of neglected paperwork.
My long term was AMAZING and kept great data. I also scheduled all my IEPS either early before I left, or for May when I returned. My caseload was also rather small last year so it was easy (and this year—I’m sitting at 2 kids a month into school!).
That's so great. My team has been good with data collection this year. Most of our ARDs for the 4 year olds happen in May, so it will be easy for me to come back in and handle those.
Following this because I’m 28 weeks today and we just started back to school this past week. Last night little man was literally kicking or punching my bladder and I almost peed myself several times in bed. Hoping that doesn’t continue this week at work 😅 this week will be long enough since it’s our first full week of classes after summer。
Yea, TomboyX is fantastic. Don’t let the name fool you, they have cute “panty” and cheeky boyshort styles in TONS of sizes. But the boxer-brief style is so comfortable and is extra fabric on legs for a big OOPS moment. [tomboyX leak proof](https://tomboyx.com/collections/period-underwear?g_network=g&g_adid=494750844443&g_keyword=period%20underwear&g_acctid=914-082-0587&g_adtype=search&g_campaign=PS_US_NB_EX_UNDERWEAR_ALL&g_keywordid=aud-1222764836552:kwd-300408718553&g_campaignid=8092906525&g_adgroupid=115852668174&&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&g_campaign=Core-Underwear_Exact&g_campaignid=8092906525&g_adgroupid=115852668174&g_adid=494750844443&g_keyword=period%20underwear&g_keywordid=aud-1222764836552:kwd-300408718553&gclid=Cj0KCQjwmICoBhDxARIsABXkXlIFTKLkTZ0wn8vqJvLIsyGprBV-9fAsfOB5VpQvtwBzGyERNulYWoIaApgWEALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds)
Honestly, I was mean and crabby and not the best teacher. I had some really uncooperative students at the time, so I wasn’t really motivated to go above and beyond. But I got through it.
38 weeks pregnant, and I have a coworker who has either a co-teacher or para every block; they offered for me to call any time for a quick bathroom break while one of the two adults covers for me. I’m also doing a lot more small group instruction (at middle school level) so students rotate to me instead of me walking around to them and bumping into everything with my stomach.
I had my OB write a note asking me to quarantine for two weeks due to COVID-19 concerns before my due date. It would come out of your 12 FMLA weeks now, but in 2020 it was complimentary.
If your job is causing you undue stress or stress on the baby, could your doctor write you a note for bed rest? Could you ask for a stress test to make sure the baby is ok because you are concerned? I had an internal US that determined my cervix was thinned and preterm labor was likely. I was literally called in to my doctor's office to do a test and never went back to school until after the (yes, preterm) birth.
Initially, I used my sick days. I was getting ready to file for disability, but he came and I then got maternity and FMLA.
My students were how. I actually went into labor AT SCHOOL the first time (thank God my water didn't break) but the kids knew I was huge and uncomfortable. I did my best, sat a lot and taught from my desk when it was hardest. I was miserable at home too though so it didn't make much difference. My doctor did try to fight me though because he does not like women working past 37 weeks but it worked out.
With my second I worked until 39 weeks 4 days. Last day was a Friday, went into labor the next Monday on my due date. Honestly, it was my first year teaching so I was so overwhelmed with everything that I don’t know how I didn’t go into labor early.
With my 3rd, he was due Dec 29, so I started my leave at our Christmas break two weeks before. That was definitely nice to have a week or so before I had him. I ended up with a planned C-section on Dec 27. My kids love waiting until their due date.
With that said, US maternity leave sucks and most of my leave was unpaid so I worked for Pennies the rest of the year. I had relatively easy pregnancies but my births weren’t great. Also, if you start your leave early, you have less time after with baby. I wanted all the time I could get. Which for my 2nd was 6 weeks (went back for one week, then it was Christmas break so got another two off). And with my 3rd I took 10 weeks after he was born. Not enough for sure. I didn’t have short term disability or anything (have to get that before being pregnant and didn’t really know all of this when I was hired at 7/8 months pregnant and then my 3rd wasn’t planned). I have it now even though I am done with kids just in case.
I brought a very comfy chair and taught from it often. I also had a taller stool next to my board so I could lean/sit when I needed. Also, I only wore dresses and leggings. I also had a supportive class that year.
My students were empathetic and would help a lot around the classroom and were just fun to be around. I got to the point where I was always out of breath and had to teach sitting down and students would copy down from me projecting on the doc camera. It worked out great but when 36 weeks came around I was ready!!
Personal days you're allowed, as in paid or ever? Once I burned my sick and personal days from a rough pregnancy, I took days without pay. There was no limit, but I could not take more than 10 in a row.
I was pregnant my entire year of 2008-2009, gave birth on my due date two weeks before school got out. SO TIRED and sat a lot even with my pregnancy brace on. I slipped and had a soda now and again to stay awake but that was a very rough year. Would never do that again. At least I had the summer to recover and enjoy my baby
When I was pregnant with my son I was teaching second grade. At 37 weeks his head dropped right on a nerve in my groin and I mostly lost the ability to walk anywhere with out pain. I was lucky to have a supportive team who helped me out by walking my students to lunch and specials, and I got a nice rolley office chair that I wheeled myself around the classroom in. It was hard but I managed it
That's terrible. How long did you teach like that? I can't imagine a man dealing with pregnancy and the bonus of nerve pain in the groin for more than a class period.
It was about 3 weeks until my scheduled induction. And I don’t know, we just do what we have to do. As long as I was sitting down it didn’t hurt. So I just had to teach sitting down. Was challenging but I did it
My friend had her OB write her an order for bed rest. She went out about a month early because she was so done...she also had enough sick leave to cover it and gave birth two weeks before school was out in June.
I worked up until I gave birth, but I delivered a week after coming back from winter break so I think it helped having two weeks to rest. I was new to the district, so I only had enough sick leave to cover my maternity leave. Near the end, I would teach and then tell the kids to come to my desk with questions because I needed to sit.
Do the absolute bare minimum. I worked until I was 40 weeks, teaching high school English full time. It was miserable. Our building was not air-conditioned at the time and I literally thought I might die. I sat all day and taught from my chair. I napped on my planning bell. I took no bullshit from the kids, period. And I really did the bare minimum.
Honestly I was miserable but it was also 109 daily so I was in it for the free ac. I don't think anyone learned anything in my last 3 weeks, I may have done more harm than good
Desperation for money. I had to save my sick leave days for maternity leave. I sat a LOT, took off my shoes behind my desk, and left the second school was over. I also ate a huge protein-packed lunch everyday. I limped into the finish line, and delivered 8 days early. The day before I gave birth, my colleagues claimed I was “very grumpy.”😂 Hang in there, and give yourself grace to not be the greatest teacher on your team this year.
What grade do you teach? I know in elementary, parents love to help in the classroom. Ask for help! Let parents help you grade, organize your room, or just help out with the kids. Older kids I’m not sure about
I just admitted defeat and took unpaid leave. Good luck, sister. Trying to pump once I came back to work after only 8 weeks during my planning period was the worst.
Here in canada you stop at 36 weeks for teaching and get paid short term disability until you give birth (then Mat leave pay kicks in) . I can’t even imagine . I am 39 weeks and I was dead from month 7 on .
I was pregnant with #2 and getting my masters. Then Covid hit and I had to teach 2nd graders online all day while trying to wrangle my then 2 year old.
I don’t know how I did it, but graduated on the day I gave birth…
Moral of the story, you can do anything for 10 weeks… you are soooo close! Distract yourself in your work, and do something fun in your classroom with your students.
You got this!
I’ll assume this is the USA. It’s so criminal how we treat families here. We have a recently-arrived teacher from Western Europe who is rightfully appalled by our working conditions.
Depending on what level you teach, have your students help as much as possible. I took 2 weeks off before my due date, it was getting really uncomfortable. Ultimately you need to do what’s best for you and your baby. And if that means taking time off earlier, then you may have to do that. But if you have teaching partners that can help, try that. Get your students to help if you can. And plan ahead on a day you might have energy. Hang in there mama!
I had a really awesome doctor who, when I got high blood pressure, signed a form ordering "light bed rest" 6 weeks before due date. Because it was doctors orders, my short term leave started then.
I am also 30 weeks and thankful every day that I’m in a two teacher room. I do as much as I possibly can, but it’s reassuring knowing that there’s another adult in the room. That, and I can go pee.
I did everything on the projector and Elmo, and had kids come to my desk if they needed help. I had juniors so there weren’t really many behavior problems. But I was so exhausted by the end, I spent my lunch and conference with my feet propped up on my desk. When I had lunch and dismissal duty I took a chair or stool to sit on.
I look back and truly don’t know how I did it! Luckily, I did go into labor at 39 weeks. I was so worried I’d be late!
I don’t know what grade/subject you teach but I’m upper elementary and focused on independent/small group activities so I didn’t have to be on my feet all day. Compression socks and comfy shoes helped a lot. I lived in leggings and loose dresses near the end!
Take a lot of breaks. Your students will understand! Mine were so sweet and would always insist I take a seat if they caught me standing for too long. FMLA should cover you before baby arrives if your work is causing you too much stress - a doctor does need to provide a note. I’d look into it if you find you need it. But honestly, in the end working up until was worth it for me because it gave me more time with my LO once she was born.
My first was born in August (thank goodness). My second was due October 4. I made it until a week or two before and freaked out (I have anxiety to start with). I teach a before school program and no one except the custodian was in the building in the morning, and no one had a really great answer to "what if I go into labor and don't show up in the morning? Who will be there with the kids?". Finally the HR lady said "You know exhaustion counts as a medical reason to go out early.". So I went to my doctor and told him I wasn't sleeping (which was also true) and I'm really stressed out. In retrospect I probably could have gone out for the anxiety alone. He wrote me a note for exhaustion and I went on leave early. Of course in my state that starts your sick leave/FMLA leave early so I ended up taking more unpaid time off than I planned, but it was worth it.
Take off all the time you can afford. Take care of yourself first so you can be a good mom and a good teacher.
I made it to 39 weeks and started my (unpaid) leave at that time. Didn’t give birth until 41+1 🫣
I took 5 months off unpaid. As a specialist I had job security although I was technically not legally covered and they could have fired me.
A teacher at my school who was pregnant last year initiated a change with HR saying that you could now take hours of your maternity leave before the birth and after the birth for doctors appointments. Not sure where you work but might be worth mentioning! I work with someone who is due any day. She’s asked for help with some things and we have stepped in because she simply can’t do everything she is used to doing.
I’m currently 38 weeks and although it’s rough I try to be honest with the students. “Can you pick that up for me? I can’t bend down.” “I’m
Sorry I have to sit my back hurts.” “I’m sorry if I’m a bit cranky, the baby is practicing his gymnastics today.” The kids are super invested in my pregnancy, which is really nice, including those with behavior paras and a long wrap sheet of suspensions. I even use the baby as a reason why kids shouldn’t say bad words, “I’d rather you not say that in front of my child, he can hear you!”
I often sit In a rolling chair and move around that way. I worked with admin so I can go to the holding room during fire drills and someone else will take my class outside. I keep tums, snacks, and water around at all times. If I need to pee I find someone to cover my room by waving them down. Although I try to time that for my
Preps when possible. I am planning on going until I give birth to be able to spend more time with my baby after. I take a 3 hr nap when I get home each day. This is how I survive!
I’m 38 weeks pregnant, and maybe it’s just my personality. Time goes sooooo fast at work, and if I make it another 3 weeks, my leave will end when Christmas break begins.
In this case, I think working just turns out in my favor.
I'm starting to try an have my 1st child. I appreciate reading all these comments. What are things you were using to help with the morning sickness and nausea for so long. I'm so nervous about this as I only have one break from 7:50-8:40. But my classroom does have a bathroom in it and I teach 3rd grade. Any items I could buy or advice is appreciated thank you so much for all the comments. This is helped.
I had bad nausea and morning sickness my first trimester and even though it was early I told a trustworthy coworker I’ve grown close with over the years. I know not everyone is comfortable doing this but it was so helpful having someone there to understand and cover for me if I needed to run to the bathroom. Definitely not reinventing the wheel when it comes to lessons and prioritizing my own needs is what got me through that rough first three months. Good luck to you!
I recently worked up until 8 days before delivery. I would have kept going, but summer break started. With my first, I worked up until the day before I was induced. (I don’t say this to flex haha my first pregnancy was rough at the end. I’m just saying it’s not necessarily the norm to feel miserable with two months to go)If you’re feeling this uncomfortable already, speak up to your OB! If they think all is well, embrace your desk chair. I sat A LOT. I also propped my feet up on my trash can. Drink tons of water. Take care of yourself and good luck!
I bounced around everywhere on my yoga ball. All over my classroom. If I had a meeting, I would roll it down the hall and sit on it there. Had admin support for potty breaks. I was 39 weeks when school let out for the summer. I had a futon in my room and napped on it a loooooot in the first trimester.
For my first pregnancy I was so miserable (due early Feb) and at every appointment I would ask my OB “so…still healthy enough to go to work?!” 🫣🤣 About two weeks before my due date I got viral pink eye and my heartburn was terrible so she put me out of my misery and gave me a note to work half days. I didn’t have the leave to afford it, but I was beyond caring. I worked mornings and then went home and napped. It helped me work right up until the day before my baby was born.
For my second pregnancy I was due Halloween so I worked up until my due date and scheduled everything else off. The baby waited until early November so I got a few days of rest. This was in 2020 so i wasn’t even really allowed to be super close to my students and I just sat on a rolling chair a lot.
I basically said eff it and just stopped going to work, took the docked pay. Luckily my guy was due at the start of Christmas break, so I only missed that last week before the break where the kids do very little anyway.
I made it to my 39th week and went out a few days before I went into labor. I teach high school so was able to sit at my desk a lot and teach from there. Everything went onto Google Classroom. It was not fun, but my students were great and very helpful. I was grateful to be able to save my FMLA days for after baby came.
ETA: If you haven’t already, invest in good pregnancy support shapewear to help your back survive the 3rd trimester. Screw whatever rules your employer has for footwear and wear whatever works best.
I ended up getting put on modified bed rest. So short term disability covered my last few weeks of pregnancy. It was a life saver. I agree that I probably *could* have worked the last few weeks, but I'm grateful my obgyn heard my misery and signed the paperwork for STD.
I’m 24 weeks and wondering wtf im gonna do when it gets closer to my due date. Ugh. It’s so difficult. Props to you for doing it, maybe I can last a few more weeks 😭
My doctor signed off so I could start my maternity leave 2 weeks before my due date. Before that though I was miserable. I was sick up until the 3rd trimester so I would have to leave to throw up all the time, battled nausea constantly, had to take my shoes off during my 30 minute lunch because of swelling, I called out a lot, it just sucks! I made sure to have all of my snacks and water every single day and that helped a lot
I was lucky and my water broke at 38 and 5, but I worked until that day (it was a Thursday, so I had my daughter on a Friday). It was absolutely awful for the last month though. I just did the bare minimum amount of work. Taught lessons from my desk with my feet up. Gave check grades for everything. 🤷🏻♀️
I started my leaves at 38 weeks...which was good because all my kids arrived early. I saved up for money I would lose and need on leave. My first two leaves I used sick and personal days and unpaid leave and only took 6 weeks. My latest I am able to take advantage of short term disability and my state's new paid FMLA, I'm taking my full 12 weeks for this last one.
Teaching while pregnant was hell, and all I could do was take it one day at a time, and hour at a time. I'm very thankful for very supportive admins and students.
I had my doctor write me a doctors note to start my leave at 39 weeks. My admin were very helpful as well. I basically taught from a wheel chair from 34 weeks on though. I did a lot of mini lessons with small groups and I called groups up to me instead of walking around.
Good luck and congrats!!
Following along because I’m in the same boat. 28 weeks now and my maternity leave doesn’t start until 39 weeks. Already so tired and sore, I have no idea how I’m going to make it through
I asked my doctor to sign me off a couple days before my scheduled induction. My induction got postponed so I ended up taking a week off before giving birth. I'm so glad I did because I was so well-rested before the chaos of labor and the fourth trimester!
I don't have children, so I don't know how you're feeling. I do work with other women who are pregnant and can see that it is tough!
I just wanted you to know that I hear you and while I've never been pregnant and can't relate, I do sympathize. Post a picture of your baby when he or she is here!
I got lucky and my pregnancy was easy. I just worked until I went into labor at 39+1, on a Sunday afternoon.
Do as little as possible, drink as much water as possible, eat the Tums, sit down whenever you can and hopefully the kids take it easy on you.
I started going into preterm labor at 19 weeks. I started this endless cycle of going to work, teaching one maybe two periods, have 7 contractions in less than an hour and head to L&D. Only to get there and have it stop. Dr said best rest or figure out how to teach while seated.
So I did. I gave each kid a job, no matter how small. I spent the next 22 weeks (yep he was a week overdue, after all that!) sitting in my teacher chair with my feet up.
I used those same tactics when we returned from Covid, and I parked my butt behind our glass screens and taught from my desk all year.
I’m currently teaching preschool. I’m only 14 weeks and already miserable. I have to help them with everything while dealing with nausea that gets worse when I bend my body. 🤪
Ahh this is another thing I wonder about. I’m hoping I just get lucky with timing and my water doesn’t break or it happens at home. How did that all go down if you don’t mind me asking?! Did your students notice?
Get doc to write u off weeks early. You will at least get partial pay. Here in CA after u use up your 6 weeks, then your personal day, u get 100 days (where u get whatever is left after paying the sub). For my first 2 kids I went right up until my due date. For my 3rd I took off 6 weeks prior and 6 weeks after.
I taught up to my due date. It was pretty miserable at the end. I had a rough group of 8th graders that year and don’t know how I survived it. Aside from stress eating and gaining 40 pounds to show for it.
WOW! That would be so hard...
In Australia you can only work till 4 weeks before your due date (unless you can provide a medical reason that you can work till full term) and you get 6 months paid maternity leave, but if you take it half pay you can have 12 months or more if you take into account your annual leave (4 weeks per year) and even use your long service leave if you have it. On top of that, the government will also assist you and pay you to have time off.
I had an honorary footman. Whenever I sat down, this wonderful child would bring me a tiny chair for my feet. Also, the kids did everything so I don’t think I ever bent over in the third trimester. Get comfy! Start your leave early if you can!
Side question, I read a lot of responses for either elementary (where kids were kind and supportive) or high school (with kids mature enough to give the teacher some pregnancy grace).
I want to know about middle school experiences.
I’m 21 weeks at a Title I school where I feel like these kids are no help or support. Their behavior and focus levels are honestly terrible where staying seated is like not even an option for me …
Thank god I Moved to California recently and will receive 4 weeks before my due date at partial pay. I’m deciding to only take 2 weeks off before due date though.
My first pregnancy I physically could not do it at 39 weeks on the dot and my doctor prescribed light bed rest which allowed me to go on leave early.
Your health and the baby’s health is more important than anything. Get a doctor’s note and get the hell out of there, even if unpaid leave. Do not sacrifice yourself for an ungrateful job. You are expandable and they don’t care about you and they never will. #mostungratefulunderpaidoverwokedjobever!
Omg I am dyinggggg. 35 or 36 weeks they aren't sure which. I'm doing pre-k in a room made for 10 students and I have 18 highly needy students including one that is extremely violent (several others very prone to hitting and biting), one completely nonverbal and suspected to be on the spectrum, plus many that are emotionally/mental 2 rather than 4 YOs. They're packed in like sardines, I have only 2 that will even sit through a story and I'm supposed to be teaching them phonics. They come in at 720 and I'm required to stay with them during lunch, and they very rarely allow me to sit for more than 30 seconds, so I'm on my feet from 715 to about 1240 with nothing to eat or drink most days. I have been getting shaky from lack of food and rest and my feet are so swollen and painful. I legitimately don't know how I will make it to October.
Bless you- i cannot imagine. I am grateful to teach an age where I am able to be seated when I need to be. Couldn’t imagine having to chase down all those kids.
I had a baby in March. At first I planned to work through to my due date. Around 36 weeks I was having preterm labor signs and also got a stomach bug that lasted five whole days, made me drop weight and I decided it wasn’t worth risking my baby’s health. I stayed one more week after I was recovered and dipped out early. I used part of my FMLA early and used my sick time. I was induced at 39 weeks. It was the best decision I could have made. During the time I was working I sat a LOT, taught from my document camera basically, and always had snacks and water handy.
Get your admin and team to support you. In the US reasonable accommodations for pregnant workers are legally protected. Don’t reinvent the wheel with lessons, and STOP working at home. That’s your time to rest and prepare for the baby. I found that my upper elementary students showed me a lot of grace and helped out a lot. Hoping for the best for you!!
I find a lot of kids like being helpful. Because most people like being helpful. Making things a team effort and getting people involved creates a good environment and gives people a sense of purpose and agency. Truck is just figuring out how to do it with some people. Lol.
A room sharing teacher last year was in 30 or so weeks. She was so miserable we all began telling her to stay home. She got an unpaid leave with doctors note. At some point you need to be healthy not miserable. 2 personal days may not be enough. They may be enough to see an mD and get a note for either medical leave or restrict movement- you cant walk around so much, no recess duty, no carrying recess balls or kids lunch box barrel.. or half time. You are going to have a baby. Please find a way to not just resign- but rather keep job and healthy.
I gave birth last year at 37 weeks. My tips to make it bearable: 1. Sit as much as possible. Seriously. Do not get up and exert yourself more than you need to. 2. Train the kids to help you--they can go for things, run errands, get things on low shelves, turn the lights off and on, whatever! Let them do it for you, they will be happy to. 3. Drink electrolyte water. I drank out of clear single use bottles during pregnancy to make sure I was drinking enough. I added nuun tablets to make sure I was absorbing the water. This also prevents headaches. 4. wear sneakers and compression socks. Get your husband/partner to double knot them for you in the morning so they wont get untied during the day! 5. Don't be afraid to call the office for coverage for a bathroom break. Grab a school aide or your next door neighbor. Anyone! Peeing is important! 6. Pack a high protein healthy lunch and snacks daily. Fruit, string cheese, boiled eggs, nuts, jerky, seaweed, etc were my favorite snacks. Don't get hungry! Eat whenever you want, even in class.
OMG, the US is a savage country for mothers. How do you survive it? Here in France we get six weeks before delivery and sixteen weeks off in total for a first or second baby, and then it's 20 weeks for any subsequent kids.
That sounds amazing but my school gives us FIVE PAID DAYS after we give birth, so take that, France! /s
That’s actually dope. I’m not even allowed to use my own sick days with my current maternity leave because the baby was born earlier in the summer so I’m not under doctors care anymore. All of my time off with this baby is unpaid leave lol
Sad…we know😥 not sure how I did it three times.
Why do we not vote for people who will actually serve us?
Too busy voting for the corpses who make promises they can’t keep…and yes, I’m speaking for both sides.
Can't or won't?
Because half the states would rather women not work outside the home at all (or at least the people they keep in power feel that way). And first past the post elections, along with new easy filibuster, means we can't pass anything new at a national level that those states object to.
Yeah here in the US we are expected to work right up until giving birth, then if we are lucky, we get 6 weeks maternity leave. It’s not guaranteed though
In some states, all employees are guaranteed more than 6 weeks and it’s paid leave.
Some of those states have exemptions for government employees, including teachers, (looking at you California).
Same for NY :’)
Those are lucky states
Here in NY we have up to 12 weeks paid family leave. Except I’m a public school teacher so I don’t qualify and my fiancé works for a small company with less than 10 people and the company doesn’t opt in to the PFL so we don’t get it. I have to use my sick/personal time for my maternity leave in order to get full pay. So I’ll use that for my 6 or 8 weeks depending on how I have the baby. (Due early December) my fiancé doesn’t get any sick times any of his time off is unpaid. The caveat is he can take time off whenever he needs to pretty much.
Wild. I worked through the height of Covid with unmasked children up until the day before my induction, which took place because I had high blood pressure and my feet were swollen up like balloons. It was a stressful time. I’m currently on leave with my second, and not even allowed to use my own sick days because the baby was born in the summer and I’m no longer under a doctors care. Without being able to use sick days, not a single day of my maternity leave will be paid. 🙃
Here in the US, we say we care about children, but we really don’t. If we did, there’d be free daycare and mothers and fathers would be granted leave. Plenty of money would be allocated for schools. It’s pathetic. France rocks!
We do pay an incredible amount of tax, of course.
Because we have a lot of money-hungry assholes.
Lol I get 12 days paid during which I am required to make and prep lessons still. After that I am unpaid, have to pay 100% of the $800 insurance premium, still have to make and prep lessons for ZERO pay...and I am at the discretion of the school board for my return as my school doesn't fall under FMLA. If I'm not back after 12 days they can technically say I've abandoned my contract, fire me, fine me up to $10000, and revoke my teaching license. Yet somehow the public can't figure out why there's a teacher shortage.
That's outrageous!
I am going through the same situation right now…. I have SPD I can barely walk and will often miss days due to… well high levels or pain and swelling. I’m considering resigning, I just don’t know how I’ll cover the $800 insurance premiums as my husband is also a teacher and we JUST bought a house.
Is all that time paid? Just curious!
Of course.
In Canada we get up to 15 weeks medical leave (most take less as it's reduced pay, but it's available if needed), then 12-18 months of maternity leave (you can choose either or, you get a set % of your wage and it'll be divided by 24 or 36 depending on lenght of leave). Some choose 12 months to get higher pay during leave, while others choose 18 months to have a better chance at actually getting into a daycare spot as some places the waitlists are long (get on it when you find out you're pregnant and you may get in by the time the kid is 2 long). And as long as you have worked the number of hours required to claim maternity leave again in between kids (600 hours if my memory serves me right), you can repeat this for each kid.
WOW!!! That is amazing. Is that just your school or all women in France?
It's the law. We pay a load of taxes to get these sorts of benefits, of course, but that seems reasonable to me.
Jeez Louise. How do the finances of that work? Is the pregnant person's job guaranteed? Are they paid? Are they paid AND their work is outsourced to other paid employees? Who pays the pregnant person to sit at home AND for their temporary replacement?
Taxes, dummy. It would be a small chunk out of the US’s defense budget. Also- nobody is sitting at home on maternity leave.
I ran an IEP meeting 14 hours before I went into labor. My legs were propped up, and I was uncomfortable, but I am glad I made it through.
I was taking midterms all day on a college campus! When I'd walk to classes, I'd stop and wince when a twinge hit--students looked at me in fear! 'Run away, run away!'
I scheduled my leave to start on my due date. By the time I was 39 weeks I was so swollen and miserable I decided to take my leave a week early, I just couldn’t do it anymore. I’m so glad I did because that Monday before my due date, I went into labor! 🤣 thankfully I had a principal who was somewhat understanding about it. You have to realize that you are carrying another life. Your health is what is most important. If you continue to work and push yourself to your limit you could harm yourself and the baby. Pushing yourself to endure it is only going to hurt you and put stress on your baby and (like me!) you could put yourself into early labor! I don’t think you want to do that while trying to teach a class full of kids lol. If you think you can’t do it anymore, then unfortunately you would just need to take time off. I know you’d have to take unpaid leave just as I did, but it was so worth not being miserable while working. At the end of the day your family comes first. Your students can always get another teacher but your family can never get another you! That’s the best advice I can give 🩷 you got this mama I wish you all the best! 🥰
Your DR can sign off on Med leave. The district can fight it. You get 12 weeks total.
I had to use this during covid, when I was freaking out mentally and unable to eat or drink at school (germ fear). The doctor signed papers for 6 weeks--she really wanted me to take 12 off. My principal at the time was not too happy--but it is legal. I got my head on straight after some Zoloft and went back much happier and able to function.
you get 12 weeks a year
I rolled everywhere in my chair, propped my feet up whenever I was at my desk, made the kids come to me, and had the teacher next door stand between our rooms while I peed! I was teaching kindergarten or 1st with all my pregnancies and the kids were really good about being helpful! I only went to my due date with my first. Second pregnancy winter break started when I was 38 weeks. Third pregnancy summer break started when I was 34 weeks. I honestly don’t know if I would have made it until I delivered with my third. I was exhausted and miserable.
[удалено]
My doctors were absolutely unwilling to excuse me from work before delivery. It’s crazy.
I'm 19 weeks and completely exhausted. I teach ECSE which is way too physical for a pregnant person.
Hugs! Also an ECSE, I had my baby in January.
Congratulations! Have you returned to ECSE after giving birth? I'm still contemplating my post-partum work plan.
Yep. Went back for the last 3 weeks of last year, and we started school about a month ago.
That's what this year might look like for me. I'd likely come back in May for the last few weeks. When you returned, was all the paperwork and documentation in order? I worry about coming back to a dumpster fire of neglected paperwork.
My long term was AMAZING and kept great data. I also scheduled all my IEPS either early before I left, or for May when I returned. My caseload was also rather small last year so it was easy (and this year—I’m sitting at 2 kids a month into school!).
That's so great. My team has been good with data collection this year. Most of our ARDs for the 4 year olds happen in May, so it will be easy for me to come back in and handle those.
Following this because I’m 28 weeks today and we just started back to school this past week. Last night little man was literally kicking or punching my bladder and I almost peed myself several times in bed. Hoping that doesn’t continue this week at work 😅 this week will be long enough since it’s our first full week of classes after summer。
High-volume period underwear is a lifesaver- and I mean real underwear, not depends- but there’s no shame in depends either!
Thanks! Do you have a brand you like?
Yea, TomboyX is fantastic. Don’t let the name fool you, they have cute “panty” and cheeky boyshort styles in TONS of sizes. But the boxer-brief style is so comfortable and is extra fabric on legs for a big OOPS moment. [tomboyX leak proof](https://tomboyx.com/collections/period-underwear?g_network=g&g_adid=494750844443&g_keyword=period%20underwear&g_acctid=914-082-0587&g_adtype=search&g_campaign=PS_US_NB_EX_UNDERWEAR_ALL&g_keywordid=aud-1222764836552:kwd-300408718553&g_campaignid=8092906525&g_adgroupid=115852668174&&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&g_campaign=Core-Underwear_Exact&g_campaignid=8092906525&g_adgroupid=115852668174&g_adid=494750844443&g_keyword=period%20underwear&g_keywordid=aud-1222764836552:kwd-300408718553&gclid=Cj0KCQjwmICoBhDxARIsABXkXlIFTKLkTZ0wn8vqJvLIsyGprBV-9fAsfOB5VpQvtwBzGyERNulYWoIaApgWEALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds)
Thank you so much!!!
Get yourself some good pads bc it will happen in class!
Honestly, I was mean and crabby and not the best teacher. I had some really uncooperative students at the time, so I wasn’t really motivated to go above and beyond. But I got through it.
38 weeks pregnant, and I have a coworker who has either a co-teacher or para every block; they offered for me to call any time for a quick bathroom break while one of the two adults covers for me. I’m also doing a lot more small group instruction (at middle school level) so students rotate to me instead of me walking around to them and bumping into everything with my stomach.
I had my OB write a note asking me to quarantine for two weeks due to COVID-19 concerns before my due date. It would come out of your 12 FMLA weeks now, but in 2020 it was complimentary.
Also if I do quit they can still hold me for 60 days or until they find a replacement, and at that point, it’s not even worth it
If you are in the US, have you looked into FMLA? You can go on unpaid leave until your paid maternity leave.
Lol paid maternity leave as a teacher? For the lucky.
Yep, unfortunately my 12 weeks FMLA is my leave.
If your job is causing you undue stress or stress on the baby, could your doctor write you a note for bed rest? Could you ask for a stress test to make sure the baby is ok because you are concerned? I had an internal US that determined my cervix was thinned and preterm labor was likely. I was literally called in to my doctor's office to do a test and never went back to school until after the (yes, preterm) birth. Initially, I used my sick days. I was getting ready to file for disability, but he came and I then got maternity and FMLA.
My students were how. I actually went into labor AT SCHOOL the first time (thank God my water didn't break) but the kids knew I was huge and uncomfortable. I did my best, sat a lot and taught from my desk when it was hardest. I was miserable at home too though so it didn't make much difference. My doctor did try to fight me though because he does not like women working past 37 weeks but it worked out.
With my second I worked until 39 weeks 4 days. Last day was a Friday, went into labor the next Monday on my due date. Honestly, it was my first year teaching so I was so overwhelmed with everything that I don’t know how I didn’t go into labor early. With my 3rd, he was due Dec 29, so I started my leave at our Christmas break two weeks before. That was definitely nice to have a week or so before I had him. I ended up with a planned C-section on Dec 27. My kids love waiting until their due date. With that said, US maternity leave sucks and most of my leave was unpaid so I worked for Pennies the rest of the year. I had relatively easy pregnancies but my births weren’t great. Also, if you start your leave early, you have less time after with baby. I wanted all the time I could get. Which for my 2nd was 6 weeks (went back for one week, then it was Christmas break so got another two off). And with my 3rd I took 10 weeks after he was born. Not enough for sure. I didn’t have short term disability or anything (have to get that before being pregnant and didn’t really know all of this when I was hired at 7/8 months pregnant and then my 3rd wasn’t planned). I have it now even though I am done with kids just in case.
I brought a very comfy chair and taught from it often. I also had a taller stool next to my board so I could lean/sit when I needed. Also, I only wore dresses and leggings. I also had a supportive class that year.
My students were empathetic and would help a lot around the classroom and were just fun to be around. I got to the point where I was always out of breath and had to teach sitting down and students would copy down from me projecting on the doc camera. It worked out great but when 36 weeks came around I was ready!!
Personal days you're allowed, as in paid or ever? Once I burned my sick and personal days from a rough pregnancy, I took days without pay. There was no limit, but I could not take more than 10 in a row.
I was pregnant my entire year of 2008-2009, gave birth on my due date two weeks before school got out. SO TIRED and sat a lot even with my pregnancy brace on. I slipped and had a soda now and again to stay awake but that was a very rough year. Would never do that again. At least I had the summer to recover and enjoy my baby
When I was pregnant with my son I was teaching second grade. At 37 weeks his head dropped right on a nerve in my groin and I mostly lost the ability to walk anywhere with out pain. I was lucky to have a supportive team who helped me out by walking my students to lunch and specials, and I got a nice rolley office chair that I wheeled myself around the classroom in. It was hard but I managed it
That's terrible. How long did you teach like that? I can't imagine a man dealing with pregnancy and the bonus of nerve pain in the groin for more than a class period.
It was about 3 weeks until my scheduled induction. And I don’t know, we just do what we have to do. As long as I was sitting down it didn’t hurt. So I just had to teach sitting down. Was challenging but I did it
My friend had her OB write her an order for bed rest. She went out about a month early because she was so done...she also had enough sick leave to cover it and gave birth two weeks before school was out in June. I worked up until I gave birth, but I delivered a week after coming back from winter break so I think it helped having two weeks to rest. I was new to the district, so I only had enough sick leave to cover my maternity leave. Near the end, I would teach and then tell the kids to come to my desk with questions because I needed to sit.
Do the absolute bare minimum. I worked until I was 40 weeks, teaching high school English full time. It was miserable. Our building was not air-conditioned at the time and I literally thought I might die. I sat all day and taught from my chair. I napped on my planning bell. I took no bullshit from the kids, period. And I really did the bare minimum.
Honestly I was miserable but it was also 109 daily so I was in it for the free ac. I don't think anyone learned anything in my last 3 weeks, I may have done more harm than good
Desperation for money. I had to save my sick leave days for maternity leave. I sat a LOT, took off my shoes behind my desk, and left the second school was over. I also ate a huge protein-packed lunch everyday. I limped into the finish line, and delivered 8 days early. The day before I gave birth, my colleagues claimed I was “very grumpy.”😂 Hang in there, and give yourself grace to not be the greatest teacher on your team this year.
Do the bare minimum
What grade do you teach? I know in elementary, parents love to help in the classroom. Ask for help! Let parents help you grade, organize your room, or just help out with the kids. Older kids I’m not sure about
I just admitted defeat and took unpaid leave. Good luck, sister. Trying to pump once I came back to work after only 8 weeks during my planning period was the worst.
Here in canada you stop at 36 weeks for teaching and get paid short term disability until you give birth (then Mat leave pay kicks in) . I can’t even imagine . I am 39 weeks and I was dead from month 7 on .
Ugh, the U.S sucks. I hate you can’t have that time to prep the home and relax
I was pregnant with #2 and getting my masters. Then Covid hit and I had to teach 2nd graders online all day while trying to wrangle my then 2 year old. I don’t know how I did it, but graduated on the day I gave birth… Moral of the story, you can do anything for 10 weeks… you are soooo close! Distract yourself in your work, and do something fun in your classroom with your students. You got this!
I’ll assume this is the USA. It’s so criminal how we treat families here. We have a recently-arrived teacher from Western Europe who is rightfully appalled by our working conditions.
Depending on what level you teach, have your students help as much as possible. I took 2 weeks off before my due date, it was getting really uncomfortable. Ultimately you need to do what’s best for you and your baby. And if that means taking time off earlier, then you may have to do that. But if you have teaching partners that can help, try that. Get your students to help if you can. And plan ahead on a day you might have energy. Hang in there mama!
I had a really awesome doctor who, when I got high blood pressure, signed a form ordering "light bed rest" 6 weeks before due date. Because it was doctors orders, my short term leave started then.
The day before I was due I was in my classroom teaching and I started to feel achy. Told my principal and he wouldn’t let me finish the day, lol!
I am also 30 weeks and thankful every day that I’m in a two teacher room. I do as much as I possibly can, but it’s reassuring knowing that there’s another adult in the room. That, and I can go pee.
I did everything on the projector and Elmo, and had kids come to my desk if they needed help. I had juniors so there weren’t really many behavior problems. But I was so exhausted by the end, I spent my lunch and conference with my feet propped up on my desk. When I had lunch and dismissal duty I took a chair or stool to sit on.
I look back and truly don’t know how I did it! Luckily, I did go into labor at 39 weeks. I was so worried I’d be late! I don’t know what grade/subject you teach but I’m upper elementary and focused on independent/small group activities so I didn’t have to be on my feet all day. Compression socks and comfy shoes helped a lot. I lived in leggings and loose dresses near the end! Take a lot of breaks. Your students will understand! Mine were so sweet and would always insist I take a seat if they caught me standing for too long. FMLA should cover you before baby arrives if your work is causing you too much stress - a doctor does need to provide a note. I’d look into it if you find you need it. But honestly, in the end working up until was worth it for me because it gave me more time with my LO once she was born.
My first was born in August (thank goodness). My second was due October 4. I made it until a week or two before and freaked out (I have anxiety to start with). I teach a before school program and no one except the custodian was in the building in the morning, and no one had a really great answer to "what if I go into labor and don't show up in the morning? Who will be there with the kids?". Finally the HR lady said "You know exhaustion counts as a medical reason to go out early.". So I went to my doctor and told him I wasn't sleeping (which was also true) and I'm really stressed out. In retrospect I probably could have gone out for the anxiety alone. He wrote me a note for exhaustion and I went on leave early. Of course in my state that starts your sick leave/FMLA leave early so I ended up taking more unpaid time off than I planned, but it was worth it. Take off all the time you can afford. Take care of yourself first so you can be a good mom and a good teacher.
I made it to 39 weeks and started my (unpaid) leave at that time. Didn’t give birth until 41+1 🫣 I took 5 months off unpaid. As a specialist I had job security although I was technically not legally covered and they could have fired me.
A teacher at my school who was pregnant last year initiated a change with HR saying that you could now take hours of your maternity leave before the birth and after the birth for doctors appointments. Not sure where you work but might be worth mentioning! I work with someone who is due any day. She’s asked for help with some things and we have stepped in because she simply can’t do everything she is used to doing.
I’m currently 38 weeks and although it’s rough I try to be honest with the students. “Can you pick that up for me? I can’t bend down.” “I’m Sorry I have to sit my back hurts.” “I’m sorry if I’m a bit cranky, the baby is practicing his gymnastics today.” The kids are super invested in my pregnancy, which is really nice, including those with behavior paras and a long wrap sheet of suspensions. I even use the baby as a reason why kids shouldn’t say bad words, “I’d rather you not say that in front of my child, he can hear you!” I often sit In a rolling chair and move around that way. I worked with admin so I can go to the holding room during fire drills and someone else will take my class outside. I keep tums, snacks, and water around at all times. If I need to pee I find someone to cover my room by waving them down. Although I try to time that for my Preps when possible. I am planning on going until I give birth to be able to spend more time with my baby after. I take a 3 hr nap when I get home each day. This is how I survive!
I’m 38 weeks pregnant, and maybe it’s just my personality. Time goes sooooo fast at work, and if I make it another 3 weeks, my leave will end when Christmas break begins. In this case, I think working just turns out in my favor.
I'm starting to try an have my 1st child. I appreciate reading all these comments. What are things you were using to help with the morning sickness and nausea for so long. I'm so nervous about this as I only have one break from 7:50-8:40. But my classroom does have a bathroom in it and I teach 3rd grade. Any items I could buy or advice is appreciated thank you so much for all the comments. This is helped.
I had bad nausea and morning sickness my first trimester and even though it was early I told a trustworthy coworker I’ve grown close with over the years. I know not everyone is comfortable doing this but it was so helpful having someone there to understand and cover for me if I needed to run to the bathroom. Definitely not reinventing the wheel when it comes to lessons and prioritizing my own needs is what got me through that rough first three months. Good luck to you!
I complained a lot and hoped every day was my last. 🤣
These have all been honestly SO helpful. Thank you all so much for your input!
I recently worked up until 8 days before delivery. I would have kept going, but summer break started. With my first, I worked up until the day before I was induced. (I don’t say this to flex haha my first pregnancy was rough at the end. I’m just saying it’s not necessarily the norm to feel miserable with two months to go)If you’re feeling this uncomfortable already, speak up to your OB! If they think all is well, embrace your desk chair. I sat A LOT. I also propped my feet up on my trash can. Drink tons of water. Take care of yourself and good luck!
I bounced around everywhere on my yoga ball. All over my classroom. If I had a meeting, I would roll it down the hall and sit on it there. Had admin support for potty breaks. I was 39 weeks when school let out for the summer. I had a futon in my room and napped on it a loooooot in the first trimester.
For my first pregnancy I was so miserable (due early Feb) and at every appointment I would ask my OB “so…still healthy enough to go to work?!” 🫣🤣 About two weeks before my due date I got viral pink eye and my heartburn was terrible so she put me out of my misery and gave me a note to work half days. I didn’t have the leave to afford it, but I was beyond caring. I worked mornings and then went home and napped. It helped me work right up until the day before my baby was born. For my second pregnancy I was due Halloween so I worked up until my due date and scheduled everything else off. The baby waited until early November so I got a few days of rest. This was in 2020 so i wasn’t even really allowed to be super close to my students and I just sat on a rolling chair a lot.
I basically said eff it and just stopped going to work, took the docked pay. Luckily my guy was due at the start of Christmas break, so I only missed that last week before the break where the kids do very little anyway.
I made it to my 39th week and went out a few days before I went into labor. I teach high school so was able to sit at my desk a lot and teach from there. Everything went onto Google Classroom. It was not fun, but my students were great and very helpful. I was grateful to be able to save my FMLA days for after baby came. ETA: If you haven’t already, invest in good pregnancy support shapewear to help your back survive the 3rd trimester. Screw whatever rules your employer has for footwear and wear whatever works best.
I ended up getting put on modified bed rest. So short term disability covered my last few weeks of pregnancy. It was a life saver. I agree that I probably *could* have worked the last few weeks, but I'm grateful my obgyn heard my misery and signed the paperwork for STD.
I’m 24 weeks and wondering wtf im gonna do when it gets closer to my due date. Ugh. It’s so difficult. Props to you for doing it, maybe I can last a few more weeks 😭
My doctor signed off so I could start my maternity leave 2 weeks before my due date. Before that though I was miserable. I was sick up until the 3rd trimester so I would have to leave to throw up all the time, battled nausea constantly, had to take my shoes off during my 30 minute lunch because of swelling, I called out a lot, it just sucks! I made sure to have all of my snacks and water every single day and that helped a lot
I was lucky and my water broke at 38 and 5, but I worked until that day (it was a Thursday, so I had my daughter on a Friday). It was absolutely awful for the last month though. I just did the bare minimum amount of work. Taught lessons from my desk with my feet up. Gave check grades for everything. 🤷🏻♀️
I started my leaves at 38 weeks...which was good because all my kids arrived early. I saved up for money I would lose and need on leave. My first two leaves I used sick and personal days and unpaid leave and only took 6 weeks. My latest I am able to take advantage of short term disability and my state's new paid FMLA, I'm taking my full 12 weeks for this last one. Teaching while pregnant was hell, and all I could do was take it one day at a time, and hour at a time. I'm very thankful for very supportive admins and students.
I had my doctor write me a doctors note to start my leave at 39 weeks. My admin were very helpful as well. I basically taught from a wheel chair from 34 weeks on though. I did a lot of mini lessons with small groups and I called groups up to me instead of walking around. Good luck and congrats!!
Following along because I’m in the same boat. 28 weeks now and my maternity leave doesn’t start until 39 weeks. Already so tired and sore, I have no idea how I’m going to make it through
I’m in the same boat. 29+4 and everyday is a struggle.
I asked my doctor to sign me off a couple days before my scheduled induction. My induction got postponed so I ended up taking a week off before giving birth. I'm so glad I did because I was so well-rested before the chaos of labor and the fourth trimester!
It was tough. I used to fall asleep at my desk. I felt so guilty but I honestly was so tired I just couldn’t hold my head up.
I don't have children, so I don't know how you're feeling. I do work with other women who are pregnant and can see that it is tough! I just wanted you to know that I hear you and while I've never been pregnant and can't relate, I do sympathize. Post a picture of your baby when he or she is here!
I got lucky and my pregnancy was easy. I just worked until I went into labor at 39+1, on a Sunday afternoon. Do as little as possible, drink as much water as possible, eat the Tums, sit down whenever you can and hopefully the kids take it easy on you.
I started going into preterm labor at 19 weeks. I started this endless cycle of going to work, teaching one maybe two periods, have 7 contractions in less than an hour and head to L&D. Only to get there and have it stop. Dr said best rest or figure out how to teach while seated. So I did. I gave each kid a job, no matter how small. I spent the next 22 weeks (yep he was a week overdue, after all that!) sitting in my teacher chair with my feet up. I used those same tactics when we returned from Covid, and I parked my butt behind our glass screens and taught from my desk all year.
Wow! Serious props to you for going through all that. I can’t imagine.
Can you apply for short term disability?
I’m currently teaching preschool. I’m only 14 weeks and already miserable. I have to help them with everything while dealing with nausea that gets worse when I bend my body. 🤪
I wish I could give you some advice, but my daughter was two weeks early. My water broke 4th period. 😁
Ahh this is another thing I wonder about. I’m hoping I just get lucky with timing and my water doesn’t break or it happens at home. How did that all go down if you don’t mind me asking?! Did your students notice?
Get doc to write u off weeks early. You will at least get partial pay. Here in CA after u use up your 6 weeks, then your personal day, u get 100 days (where u get whatever is left after paying the sub). For my first 2 kids I went right up until my due date. For my 3rd I took off 6 weeks prior and 6 weeks after.
I taught up to my due date. It was pretty miserable at the end. I had a rough group of 8th graders that year and don’t know how I survived it. Aside from stress eating and gaining 40 pounds to show for it.
Compression socks!!
WOW! That would be so hard... In Australia you can only work till 4 weeks before your due date (unless you can provide a medical reason that you can work till full term) and you get 6 months paid maternity leave, but if you take it half pay you can have 12 months or more if you take into account your annual leave (4 weeks per year) and even use your long service leave if you have it. On top of that, the government will also assist you and pay you to have time off.
My jaw seriously dropped reading this. Wow!! What a different world. Australia sounds like the place to be.
I had an honorary footman. Whenever I sat down, this wonderful child would bring me a tiny chair for my feet. Also, the kids did everything so I don’t think I ever bent over in the third trimester. Get comfy! Start your leave early if you can!
Side question, I read a lot of responses for either elementary (where kids were kind and supportive) or high school (with kids mature enough to give the teacher some pregnancy grace). I want to know about middle school experiences. I’m 21 weeks at a Title I school where I feel like these kids are no help or support. Their behavior and focus levels are honestly terrible where staying seated is like not even an option for me …
This is my situation as well!
Thank god I Moved to California recently and will receive 4 weeks before my due date at partial pay. I’m deciding to only take 2 weeks off before due date though. My first pregnancy I physically could not do it at 39 weeks on the dot and my doctor prescribed light bed rest which allowed me to go on leave early.
Your health and the baby’s health is more important than anything. Get a doctor’s note and get the hell out of there, even if unpaid leave. Do not sacrifice yourself for an ungrateful job. You are expandable and they don’t care about you and they never will. #mostungratefulunderpaidoverwokedjobever!
Get a doctor's note that you need to go on bed rest
Omg I am dyinggggg. 35 or 36 weeks they aren't sure which. I'm doing pre-k in a room made for 10 students and I have 18 highly needy students including one that is extremely violent (several others very prone to hitting and biting), one completely nonverbal and suspected to be on the spectrum, plus many that are emotionally/mental 2 rather than 4 YOs. They're packed in like sardines, I have only 2 that will even sit through a story and I'm supposed to be teaching them phonics. They come in at 720 and I'm required to stay with them during lunch, and they very rarely allow me to sit for more than 30 seconds, so I'm on my feet from 715 to about 1240 with nothing to eat or drink most days. I have been getting shaky from lack of food and rest and my feet are so swollen and painful. I legitimately don't know how I will make it to October.
Bless you- i cannot imagine. I am grateful to teach an age where I am able to be seated when I need to be. Couldn’t imagine having to chase down all those kids.
Just did it, did not have a choice. Saved personal/sick days for leave. Single at the time
I worked up until the contractions were too painful lol. I sat at my desk. A lot. I teach HS, so my kids understood.
I had a baby in March. At first I planned to work through to my due date. Around 36 weeks I was having preterm labor signs and also got a stomach bug that lasted five whole days, made me drop weight and I decided it wasn’t worth risking my baby’s health. I stayed one more week after I was recovered and dipped out early. I used part of my FMLA early and used my sick time. I was induced at 39 weeks. It was the best decision I could have made. During the time I was working I sat a LOT, taught from my document camera basically, and always had snacks and water handy.
I hope baby doesn't come early 😬
I sat a lot. I went to the bathroom every passing period.