How to go back to work with twins

Going back to work with twins, triplets or more

Going back to work after maternity leave is a big shift for any parent. When you have twins, triplets or more, everything can feel magnified. There’s more washing, more organising and usually less sleep.

You might feel excited to use your skills, nervous about leaving your babies, relieved at the idea of hot drinks and adult chat or worried about money. Those feelings can appear one by one or all at once. None of them means you’re doing it wrong, they just mean this change really matters to you.

Try to give yourself permission to feel how you feel. This isn’t just putting work clothes back on, it’s an emotional transition for you and for your children. You’ve done something huge in growing and caring for more than one baby, so it’s natural if going back feels huge too.

Planning a return to work that feels realistic

It can help to start with a picture of what a good week might look like, rather than what you think it should look like. Twins rarely stick to the script, so any plan needs some flex.

Think first about timing. Could you use a phased return so you’re not back at full speed straight away, or use annual leave to shorten the first few weeks? ‘Keeping In Touch (KIT)’ days are a gentle way to reconnect with colleagues, hear about any changes and rebuild your confidence before you’re officially back.

Next, look at how you work. Part-time hours, compressed days, hybrid working or slightly different start and finish times can make a big difference when you’re getting two babies ready. You have the right to ask about flexible working. When you talk to your manager, keep things honest and practical, focusing on what will help you do your job well.

Childcare, daily life and sharing the load

Childcare is one of the biggest pieces of the puzzle with twins. It can be complicated and costly, so starting early gives you space to explore different options.

You might look at:

• Nursery, which may sometimes offers a reduction for siblings, so it’s always worth asking
• Childminders, who often have smaller, home-like settings and a bit more flexibility
• A nanny or nanny share, which can be personal and convenient but may mean taking on employer paperwork
• Family support, where even one regular morning from a grandparent can make a real difference

Whichever option you choose, let your provider know that although your babies are twins, they’re two individuals with their own needs. Ask how they settle two babies at once and how they’ll keep in touch with you during the day. Build in extra time for drop-offs and pick-ups, because everything takes longer with more than one child (especially when someone loses a sock!). More detail about child care options can be found here - Link to INF-069 for childcare options when returning to work

Once work starts again, small tweaks at home can protect your energy. Keep evenings as simple as you can, say yes to easy meals, batch cook when you get the chance and share night duties if you have a partner. Online shopping or click and collect can save both time and headspace.

Support from people who understand life with twins is priceless. Twins Trust offers online communities (LINK), local clubs (LINK), information and a helpline (LINK) you can reach on WhatsApp, by email or over the phone. You don’t have to figure everything out alone.

Being kind to yourself as life finds a new rhythm

Returning to work after having twins is a big milestone, whether you’re going back because you want to, because you need to or a bit of both. There’ll be days when the juggle feels too much and days when you realise how far you’ve come. Both are part of finding your new rhythm.

Try to notice what you’re managing, not just what’s slipping through the cracks. You’re caring for two babies, keeping everyday life going and showing up at work, often while tired. That deserves real credit.

Above all, be as kind to yourself as you’d be to a friend in the same situation. Celebrate the small wins, like getting everyone out of the house more or less on time or making it through a tricky meeting. Your children don’t need a perfect parent, just a loving one who’s doing their best, and that’s exactly what you’re already doing.