During parental leave, everyday life changes fundamentally. New tasks and routines take centre stage. Once family life has settled into a routine, many people feel the desire for professional development or intellectual stimulation. Further training can help you stay on top of things professionally.

Staying active during parental leave

Today’s world of work is characterised by digitalisation and rapid change. To ensure you don’t fall behind, the following steps may be worth taking:

• keeping your industry knowledge up to date

• maintain professional contacts

• show an interest in developments within your own professional field

A ‘career setback’ after parental leave?

Many parents find that returning to work after parental leave is more challenging. Specialist knowledge may have changed during this time or may no longer be up to date. However, this does not necessarily mean a career setback. Continuing professional development during parental leave can provide targeted support in this regard and has two key benefits:

• refreshing existing knowledge and acquiring new specialist knowledge

• a clear sign of initiative to employers

Making good use of parental leave on your CV

Parental leave often means a break from work, which is reflected in one’s CV. Through targeted further training, this time can be put to good use and spent acquiring new skills. Anyone wishing to actively plan their return to work or further their career may also wish to consider an advanced vocational training course.

Funding for continuing professional development

Employees may, under certain circumstances, be able to receive financial support from their employer for further training whilst on parental leave. If you plan to return to the company, the further training should be relevant to your previous role and career goals.

The benefit of parental leave: flexible learning

• location-independent online training courses

• a high degree of flexibility for parents with young children

• learning from home is possible