It’s great you can get an on-line degree, doing most of the work from home. But how can working mums study and care for children? There’s no easy solution, you will have to put in more effort but do try some of these things other mums do.
Find a study/playroom
If your children are old enough to entertain themselves to some degree, you can try to create a space where you can study and your child(ren) can play. Find an area in your home that is open and available. Try to pick a spot that is away from high traffic areas and that is distraction free for the most part.
Though this is not an option for everyone, finding a separate room to act as your study/play room is ideal. In this room create two separate work stations for you and your child. Set the child’s area aside from your desk and stock it with markers, pencils, puzzles, books, colouring books, games, and anything else that they enjoy and is a quiet individual activity.
Now get your studying done, while your kids are also occupied and entertained and learn about studying at the same time!
Create a study group with other studying mums
Try to make connections with other mums who are in a similar situation as you. If you can find other mothers who have school obligations, at-home work, or studious hobbies, create a mummy study group with them.
You can all get together and let your children play together as you each study or you can arrange to have one mum take care of the group’s children, while everyone else studies.
Both of these options allow busy mums to get the study time in that they need. In addition it gives you a network of support with other mothers in a similar situation.
Take your child to the library with you
The library is a very popular choice for study sessions and quiet reading. Nestled between cozy stacks of books is an ideal place to really concentrate on one’s https://www.montauk-monster.com/pharmacy/propecia work. However, the library isn’t always a viable option for mums with young children.
Taking your child with you to the library only works if your child is fit for a longer library session. If it works to let your child read while you study though, this can be a great option. You are studying, while your child learns to incorporate reading into their everyday live at a young age, which is a great habit for life.
Do also look out for events and classes for children organized by your library. They can have a fun and enlightening activity while you are studying.
Create a family study time
This option is most successful with children who are already of school age. Pick an hour or two each day to be your daily “family study time”. During this time, every member of the family can sit together in the study or at the dining table to study.
Children can work on their homework or personal reading, while you do your own studying. This is a great way to bring your family together and stay on top of your children’s study habits.
Even if your kids do not have any homework from school that day, you can encourage them to join the family for study time. They can work on their own personal projects, drawing or reading.
Find a sitter
While this option is not ideal and is certainly not my favourite, it is sometimes necessary. For days when you have a major exam the next day or a huge project to complete, you may need to find a babysitter for your kids. Find someone who you know well and trust completely, and that your children feel completely comfortable with.
If a sitter is an option for you, it’s best to use them when you face a particularly challenging and time intensive period. Use that extra time wisely.
Author: Angelita Williams, who writes on the topics of on-line courses. She welcomes your comments. You can also contact her directly at angelita.williams7 @gmail.com.
Great response Christine, thank you. I really like the idea of finding someone in a similar situation. I am now getting in touch with a friend who is studying, perhaps we can create a study/work club.