Hello readers! So here we are in the final installment of my Pregnancy at Work series. If you are also a mommy-to-be, then congratulations on making it this far. The finish line is in sight. For me, my third trimester went great (still 8 weeks to go as I am writing this so I’m sure there is still room for things to escalate). Here are some of the main issues that I dealt with teaching while pregnant:
- finding a long term sub/being ready for “Labor Day”
- setting up my classroom
- frequent bathroom breaks
- gestational diabetes
- swollen ankles
Obviously every pregnancy is different, so I can only speak to the stuff that I dealt with. So I cannot speak to every type of symptom. I think the important thing is the realize that there is a range fo normal and to just make sure you are in that range and discuss any concerns you have with your doctor.
Getting Ready for “Labor Day”
So you never know when baby is going to decide it’s time to come out. They could show up early, or hang in there late. I’m one of those types of people who likes to be prepared a head of time, just in case, so I’ve been plowing away at writing long-term sub plans since the summer time. My sub folder is all set now for at least the first 9 weeks that I plan to be out, and I will work to have the last couple weeks of plans written in before I leave. On top of lesson plans, the folder has important info on where to find things around the room, procedures for borrowing recorders, how to turn on the tech in my room. Anything they might need to know, complete with pictures when necessary. Anything to reduce the numbers of questions fielded by my team members, or texting me while I’m trying to figure out how to be a mom.
My plan is to work until baby comes, so it is important to talk with team members or office staff so you have an action plan should you go into labor at school. (Your hubsand/significant other should be part of this this game plan too). Others choose a time to leave close to their due date, so they can be home when they go into labor. Pick what’s right for you.
What If I Go Into Labor Early?
Have emergency sub plans available. These can tide you over til your planned leave. Or if baby comes really early, most employers will allow you to adjust the dates of your FMLA. I started my long-term sub plans for one week prior to when I actually plan to be out. That way if I have to switch my leave, the kids aren’t sitting around watching movies for weeks.
Also, I have a “back up driver” who can drive me home if my contractions have me feeling like I can’t make the short ride home safely by myself. And of course, a plan on how to have my team take over my class if I have to leave.
Finding a Long-Term Sub
Because of my before school Chorus and performances and such, we are looking to hire a temporary teacher instead of a long-term sub, as they have more ability to take on some of these duties. Reach out to colleagues and local universities and any music connections that you have to find someone. Then, at least at my school, there is still a hiring process with interviews, so the final decision is made by my principal (with me on the interview committee).
Setting Up My Classroom
Ask for help. This sentence will get you FAR in your final trimester. It all depends on when you are expecting. For me, I was in my final trimester when school started back up. So setting up my own instruments wasn’t going to happen. I sent out an email to my staff asking for some teachers to help move instruments into place. We had about 6-7 teachers and set up that room in like 10 minutes. It was amazing. Whether you have teachers, friends or even students help you out, there are lots of helping hands out there. Make use of them. And keep things simple. In past years I’ve done elaborate. bulletin boards or decorated doors. This year, I stuck to the basics. If it doesn’t HAVE to be done, I don’t do it.
Bathroom Breaks
Don’t be shy to ask for a quick bathroom break between classes. It is important to keep drinking lots of water during this time, so don’t skimp on that. Every teacher in my school has been very understanding. I am fortunate to have a bathroom right out side my classroom door, so it takes very little time for me to take a quick break. Of course, be gracious and thank the teacher for giving you that minute you need. Even though it may be necessary for you, it is still greatly appreciated.
Swollen Ankles
The last month of my pregnancy swollen ankles reared their ugly head. At first I just tried to prop my feet up when I got home and call it good, but I realized that I needed a little more assistance than that, so I bought some compression socks. That means I’ll be wearing athletic shoes for the remainder of my days at school, but that’s just how it has to be. And compression socks made a HUGE difference in the swelling. But also, do find ways to prop up your feet EVERY time you have a break. And proper them up all the way (above your heart level) when you get home. And drink LOTS of water.
Gestational Diabetes
This is another thing that can vary from mom to mom. Many people don’t even have to deal with this. Others have mild issues and for some mothers this is a major issue. I would say for me it was a mild issue – slightly high numbers but not alarming. You will be surprised at the sugar levels in some of the things you thought were healthy choices. Then, do what works for you. Obviously, keeping up your food intake in this stage of the game is very important for you and baby, so you gotta find foods you will actually eat. Just trying to make like substitutions to reduce sugar can help keep you on track. Also, getting out of your desk and walking around throughout the day can help.
Other Articles Related to Being a Teacher During Pregnancy
Musical Mommy – Teaching During the First Trimester
Musical Mommy – Teaching During the Second trimester
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