Women who are thinking of returning to work now that their children are older could consider becoming self-employed and starting their own business.

According to Carol Wilson, managing director of Performance Coach Training, there are plenty of small businesses that thrive despite the tough financial climate.

"It is always possible to become one of those successful ones. However, if at all possible, I recommend taking the safe route of growing the business part-time before giving up the day job," she said.

Working on a business venture could give new mums the opportunity to work flexibly and from home so that they cut down on the amount of nursery and childcare bills, although it is important that small business owners set aside enough time in the day to concentrate fully on their enterprise.

There are other benefits to being self-employed too - Ms Wilson noted that the sense of control over one's life is "exhilarating".

"You may be working all hours and at the mercy of your clients, but you know it is your choice," she pointed out.

"The most frustrating thing I found about working for someone else was the expectation of putting in eight hours, five days a week. On top of that, you would be expected to rise to the occasion if overtime was called for, but never to work less hours during slack times."

The number of tax benefits available could be another siren call to those who are considering the best careers for women with small children, while at the end of the day, you have something to sell instead of relying on a dwindling pension, according to Ms Wilson.

Of course, women who decide to work from home will need up-to-date technology to ensure they stay ahead of their competitors. Research from Kantar Worldpanel ComTech has revealed that half of the British population now own a smartphone, while the Federation of Small Businesses has called on the government to commit to extending superfast broadband across the UK.