Tips for Student Parents Returning to Education: 5 Top Tips For Success

More and more adults are returning to education and many of them are parents. For mothers and fathers alike, returning to college requires a unique support system to balance academics, family and sometimes, work. Balancing these priorities is not always simple. This article will provide five tips for parents returning to education and hopefully assures you that your decision to continue your learning will be well worth it.  

1. Know the Reasons You’re Returning to Education 

You may be returning to school for a number of reasons. Some of which may include, bettering your career options, increasing your knowledge and skills or setting an example for your children. Whatever your reason for returning to education, it is vital to know why you are pursuing a degree/qualification while parenting. Understanding your why will help when balancing your priorities becomes challenging. Writing down your goals and intention setting may be helpful exercises as you explore your whys.  

2. Ask for Support 

Earning a college degree/qualification is a huge undertaking, one that is challenging to do without support. Don’t be scared to reach out to family and friends for support while you are in school. Communicate your needs and know that support comes in a variety of forms. Also, look into the academic support networks offered by your college. Student advisors can provide amazing support and connect you with academic success resources tailored for student parents.  

3. Master Time Management 

Your child needs you. Your employer needs you. Your studies need you. You’re busy. Even if you weren’t going to college, you would still be juggling a number of different priorities from dinner, cleaning, bills, pick-ups, after-school activities and much more. So, how do you manage your time now that you have your own academic responsibilities. You need to carve out time for all of your commitments and protect it. Time management will be essential to your academic success and college-work-life balance. Implement time management tips and resources and establish a routine that works well for you.  

4. Research Grants for Parents or Scholarships 

Going back to school is not just about commitments related to time, it is also a financial commitment. Luckily, there are lots of scholarships out there for student parents, you just to have to find them and the financial resources that will help you return to education. 

5. Set Boundaries with Your Family, Friends and Colleagues 

Support is not the only thing you need from your family, friends and colleagues, you also need boundaries. Setting boundaries will help you to preserve your self-care and remain focused on your studies. Let these individuals know how they can respect your education. For example, this may include giving you some quiet time or time off before exams.