No, I’m not going to talk about sending your first born off to college instead I’m going to talk about your decision to head back to school yourself.  Moms are busy people, yet college moms are even busier.  If you are considering heading back to school I say “Congratulations!” College moms have to learn the finer art of balancing their lives.  They need to give enough of themselves to their children so that they are happy, yet also give enough of themselves to their studies to be proud of those accomplishments as well.  How exactly do you balance all this?  Some moms even throw in a job to boot!

First things first, be sure that your child (ren) has plenty of child care.  Be it from family members or a child care center that is up to you and your situation.  If you have family members that can help you out, use them first as your child (ren) will enjoy bonding with them.  I was lucky enough to have my mom a few days a week and my husband was a huge supporter of furthering my education.  Be aware that as soon as you step back through the door, your “job” will be that of Mommy.

Do your very best to make your schedule as consistent as possible.  Try to plan study time on the same day/night so that everyone in the family knows that is mom’s work time.  If your child (ren) is old enough to understand, explain to them where you go and what you are studying.  They will end up being your biggest cheerleaders if you let them.  Reassure them that they are your #1 priority and that you think about them even when you are gone.

Try to schedule everything.  If you have a break between classes, utilize that time to study and do work.  If you have the ability, plan your study times each week around your children’s activities.  For me, one of the best times to study was after my children went to bed for the night.  I had a couple of good hours that I could sit and study.  If you have time studying at home because you feel the need to clean, do laundry and such, then schedule in your study times and head off to the college or even the public library to have some good quiet study time.

As you schedule your weeks during classes, remember to leave time to play with your children.  Maybe you get a B+ instead of an A+ on a project, but the quality time with your children is just as important.  Also, don’t forget to schedule a little mom time.  Get the children into bed and go take a nice hot bubble bath, relaxing will actually make you both a better mom and a better student.  Take time to go for a walk and of course to eat healthy too.

Remember, your children are only little once, enjoy them as they grow and be sure to find the right balance for you and your family.