how many FTWM resigned after maternity to stay at home with LO? Is it worth to give up your career, when baby can be placed in an IFC, which might even be more beneficial for baby. Does this stretch the family finances a lot?

I was also a FTWM till my dad was diagnosed with cancer when my #2 was born. I then decided to resign to spend more time with him. Subsequently even after he left, i realised how important it is to be able to spend time with the kids especially when they are young. My dad worked too hard and barely have much time with us and when he did, he was already very sick. His passing taught me that yes, it is worthwhile to give up my career just to see the kids grow up and teach them the right values as 1 day, kids will turn into teens and no longer need us. That is when I should get back to work. As for the perception that placing baby in IFC is more beneficial, i think that depends on individuals. I'm one of those who are against IFC and maids so I can only care for them on my own. As for family finances, it's definitely a stretch but we are still coping. It's just lesser savings, no new clothes except cny, haircuts only 2x a yr n I/hb will cut all my 3 kids' hair. We certainly don't travel as frequently or even as far as my friends who went to taiwan, japan, europe etc. But I'll always remind myself that i've more control over how to mould my kids' characters, instill good values and also get to be by their side during their precious early years.