Balancing parenthood and education can be challenging, but with some planning and effort, it is possible to successfully manage both roles. Here are some tips for combining parenting and studying:
Set a Schedule
The key to juggling parenting and studies is having a schedule. Set specific times for studying, attending classes, and spending time with your family. Try to keep a consistent routine as much as possible. Having set times for each responsibility will help you stay focused and organized on your kids as well as your Mary Baldwin University online degree course.
When creating your schedule, make sure to build in buffer time for the inevitable interruptions and emergencies that come with having kids. Allow flexibility for doctor’s appointments, sick days, school events, etc. Accept that you may need to adjust your schedule week to week.
Get Help from Your Support System
As a parent pursuing education, you cannot do it all alone. Reach out to your support system to help out with childcare while you go to class or study. A spouse, family member, or trusted friend/neighbor can cover the kids for a few hours. Some schools may also have childcare assistance programs.
If regular in-person help is not available, consider online tutoring services that can keep the kids occupied for short periods of time while you hit the books. Apps like UrbanSitter can also help you find babysitters able to cover occasional nights when you need to focus on schoolwork.
Study During Kid Downtime
Take advantage of the windows of time when your children are occupied – like when they are napping, watching a movie, or playing independently. Use this time to read textbooks, work on assignments, or review class notes. Studying in small chunks whenever you can helps maximize productivity.
Bringing study materials along on outings is another way to sneak in study time. Review flashcards on the playground or read an article during dance practice. Hands-on parenting time can be combined with studying.
Get Organized
Organization is crucial when juggling multiple priorities. Keep all due dates, assignments, and schedules in one master calendar, whether paper or digital. Have school books, laptops, and materials ready to go in one spot so you can grab and get to work whenever you have free time.
Use folders and binders to keep class notes orderly and easily accessible for studying. Apps like Evernote can help you organize notes and information in one digital place across devices. Staying on top of deadlines and paperwork is essential.
Find Family-Friendly Study Spots
Look for study places suitable for bringing your kids so you can learn and watch them at the same time. Options may include campus libraries with kids’ areas, bookstores with seating, or parks on warmer days. Some coffee shops and cafes also have spaces for studying while supervising children.
Online classes allow the flexibility to attend lectures and complete coursework from home while still being available for your kids. Maximizing study time at home when children are in bed or at school is also key.
Don’t Be Too Hard on Yourself
Recognize that balancing parenting and academics is tough, and you will not be perfect at it. When conflicts arise between school and family responsibilities, do not be too hard on yourself. Find ways to prioritize what truly matters in the moment.
