Tuesday, February 20, 2018

Studying As A Mom

Many moms decide to go back to school. It's a great way to take some time for yourself, 
away from family life. To do something that could give you and your family a better future,
 or just a chance to use your brain in an academic way. Learning something new later in 
life can be hugely rewarding. For some women, going back to school is a way back into work, 
or the chance to take on a new career. More women than ever are returning to work once they have had children but when you are going back after a break, your industry may have changed significantly, and there may be a lot to learn. Or, you may find that your previous role fails to offer the flexibility that you now need to work around your family commitments, and that you need to study to gain the qualifications needed to change career.


Whatever your reasons for going back to school it can be tough. If you've ever tried to read a book or watch a TV show while your kids are running around, you'll know how hard it can be to concentrate. Now imagine trying to research a paper or complete an essay, while your kids are at home. It's not going to be easy, but if it's what you really want, it's certainly possible. Here are some great tips to help you study and do well, without sacrificing your family's needs.


Study Online


An online course, like a leadership MBA online, can be the ideal choice for parents. You may need to go into school for exams, or travel for a placement, depending on your course but, the rest of the time, you'll be able to work at home without having to go into school every day for lectures and seminars.


This means that you can study in your own time, around your other commitments. It will be completely up to you. Online study also means that you are free to study at your own pace. You may find that you have days where you can work for hours, but others where you can only do a little. When you study online, that's fine. You work to suit your life.


Study Part-Time


Another excellent option for moms that want to study is taking on a part-time course. This could be ideal if you also need to work. While it will take longer to complete your course, it will mean there's less disruption to your family, and you'll get the same results in the end. Studying an online course part-time could be the perfect combination.


Get into a Routine


A routine is essential for any parent. Even if you stay at home with the kids, a routine can help keep you sane and happy. Try to add study into the mix, and a structured routine will make everything much easier.


However, your routine will depend on you and how you work best. You may enjoy working early in the mornings to keep the rest of your day free. Or, you might prefer reading when the kids are in bed, and you don't need to worry about them. Try a few different things to find what fits best. Then, stick to it as much as you can.


Get Organized


Organization is another critical element. Keep a diary and write everything down. Include the kid's appointments, your deadlines; your husbands work schedule and anything else that comes up. Plan for any changes in advance and write lists every morning so that you know exactly what you need to do every day.


Read


If you've been out of school for a while, you may find studying again a shock to the system. Reading is a brilliant way to adjust. Read as much as you can. Read all of your course materials, and any extra books that you can find on the topic. But also read fiction.


Reading is a beautiful way to learn and understand, but it's also a fantastic way to rest and leave your own worries behind. Get into the habit of reading whenever you can, and you'll be giving yourself a great head start.


Involve the Kids


It's important that you consider your children's feelings. If you've always been home with them, and they've always had all of your attention, they might find it upsetting when you start doing something else. Explain what you are doing and why in as much detail as they can understand, depending on their age. Then, involve them. Tell them what you are doing, study while they do their homework. Find related crafts and books that you can do together and ask them for help with your homework. They'll love being involved and feeling important to your studies.


Get Help


Even if you are working online and don't need childcare to allow you to go into school, it can be a good idea to ask for help. This could be just asking your partner to help with cooking and cleaning more or to do bedtime a few nights a week. Or, it might be finding a babysitter or relative who can take the children a few days a week or take over the school runs to give you some free time to study.


Remember Why You're Doing it


There will be times when it's too much, and it seems too hard. Don't worry, and don't give up. Remind yourself of why you started your studies, of what you hope to get out of it in the end and how this could benefit your family. You are a fantastic role model for your children, and you deserve your success.


Take a Break

Then, take a break when you can. Some weeks, you'll be fine taking a night off to have a bath, read a book and enjoy a glass of wine. Don't go near work, take a little time off for yourself. Other times, you'll need more. Book a vacation or go on a family reunion and take your family away for a few days leaving your laptop at home. Don't feel guilty about this; it will do you all good.

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