Everything a Mom Needs to Know About Going Back to School

Become an A+ Mom

As a kid, your main job was to do your homework. As a mom, you're responsible for your kids, your home, your job ... and the list goes on. How can you possibly add schoolwork to the mix? Here's what you need to know about going back to school as a mom.

Outline Your Goals
First, spend some time thinking about what you want to get out of your program of study, and write down your intended outcomes. If you have clear, specific goals, such as earning your degree to get a promotion at work or gain entry to a new career, they can serve as a reminder of what you're working for when the laundry piles up and dinner consists of peanut butter and jelly sandwiches - again.

Establish Boundaries
Manage your family's expectations right from the start. Let them know you're still available to talk and play, but when you're doing your homework, you must be left alone. A physical boundary like a closed office door can help your children understand when you cannot be interrupted.

Manage Your Time
When you're juggling motherhood and school, you don't have the luxury of procrastination. Maintain maximum efficiency by carving your day into small chunks of time. When your kids are having their afternoon snack, for instance, review your flashcards. Do your homework when they're doing theirs. Institute a family-wide "quiet hour" and use your time to study.

Manage Your Money
You wouldn't pay full price for jeans you could get on sale, so why pay top dollar for an education that you could get at half the price? Inquire about your employer's tuition reimbursement benefits, which could save you a bundle on college costs. Plus, as an adult student, you may qualify for more financial aid than you think. Any remaining costs may be covered by education loans.

Ask For Help
Enlist your family to take on the chores you might normally perform, such as preparing meals, taking out the trash, and folding the laundry. When you ask your family to pitch in, you're giving them the opportunity to be there for you and contribute to your success as a student - and as a mom.

by Robyn Tellefsen

Get Matched With a School for You

	* = required fields
Career of Interest:	*
Desired Career Path:	*
Preferred Method of Study:	*
First Name:	*
Last Name:	*
Phone Number:	*
E-mail Address:	*
Zip / Postal Code:	*