If you are a single parent then you’ll know that everything is more difficult without the back-up of a second parent. But you also know that we have learned to be more adaptable, resourceful and just plain awesome at getting things done!
So how is it possible? Let’s go through some of the major challenges that you are going to face and single mum the heck out of them!
Child Care
The biggie, childcare is often thought of as the biggest stumbling block to anything we try to do as single parents but you may find your requirements are a little more flexible than when you are working in a job. Lectures and classes vary each day/week and you may be lucky enough not to have every day at university or college. One thing to consider is how you can most effectively use the time between classes to study. You may need to book a full days childcare so that you can study in the day and spend time with the kids at night.
Balancing Time Between Responsibilities
This is key, as you may have a few things to balance, such as domestic chores (housework, meal planning, shopping, dealing with bills etc.), study, family time and child-care. In my mind, the children always come first, so take this into account when deciding your course and mode of study, so you leave a bit of flexibility for keeping a good life/study balance. Part-time or online courses could be the answer to these issues, it will take a little longer to attain the degree but you can do so being safe in the knowledge that you didn’t neglect other aspects of life (although you will need to be super self-disciplined!).
Finding Time For Domestic Chores
We talked about domestic chores just before and the level of this depends on your lifestyle and size of your family. I think that concentrating on study and the kids are more important than a tidy house, however, there are still things that need to be done...you still need to eat, for example. Simple food is the answer. Go back to thinking about quick and easy student meal ideas that you can just expand to make enough for a family. Meal plan, batch cook and freeze meals where possible to save yourself time during the week.
Making Sure That It Is Financially Viable
Long term the chances are that gaining extra qualifications is a route that’s going to benefit you financially, but you still need to be able to provide for the family and make life good for the kids in the here and now. Make a simple spreadsheet and put down outgoings such as rent/mortgage, bills, debts etc. and work out how you are going to meet these. Student loans and other student finance is available but be sure you know how these are structured and how soon after graduation will you be expected to begin repayments. Government loans are not due until an earning threshold is met, but if you take out any finance from banks etc, they are not likely to be as flexible, so be very careful you can afford your student loan repayment when you start working.
There may also be benefits that you can claim as a single parent and student, so get in touch with your local Citizen's Advice (CAB) who will be able to give you free advice about what you're entitled to.
Ensure Your Family Is On Board
Being a single parent is hard work, especially when you've made the decision to study too. Get as much support from friends and family as you can - you'd be surprised how supportive people are...but you need to ask and be honest about what you need, even if it's just a shoulder to cry on when the going gets tough.
If any of your extended family are helping you out with childcare etc. be sure they know of any changes to routine.
And finally, remember to tell your children how much studying means to you and how much difference you hope it will make to all your lives. You are setting a wonderful example to them and showing them what's possible when you are determined and passionate - you got this!
Are you a single parent embarking on higher education? Feel free to share your story and tips in the comments.
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