This paper focuses on the methodology of a study that asked what factors English mothers of very young babies consider when making employment decisions and childcare choices, and sought their views on the idea of carers in day care settings "loving" their children. After a characterisation of life historical study, a four-staged process…

Employers view career breaks negatively, but particularly when women leave the work force to raise a family. Discusses how women returning to work assess their skills, knowledge, and attributes and present them to prospective employers; how employers assess the skills of job applicants; and how problems in these areas can be reduced. (PEN)