The kids are going back to school. Whether this statement makes you sad or happy, it’s that inevitable time of year again. Maybe you are thinking of going back to school, too? Maybe you think about going back to school every fall? So what is in your way, what stops you? Is it fear? Is it time? Money? Maybe you aren’t ready…..or are you?
Whether you are going back to get your GED, vocational school, Bachelor’s degree or a graduate degree, the time is now. It’s time for you and for your kids. First, you are your kids’ first teacher so you will be showing them the importance of education. Second, you will be showing them the importance of taking care of yourself. Third, you can study with your kids. Finally, you can celebrate your accomplishments with your kids.
Here are some tips and tricks for parents who return to school:
- Tell your kids what you are doing — you are working on yourself, improving your financial situation, trying to give them a better life
- Get their help — kids can learn to set the table, make nachos or pasta for dinner, take out the trash, recycling, feed the dog, make lunches
- Make family time — set aside Friday afternoon or evening to hang out together, play a board game, eat pizza or cereal for dinner
- Get organized — set up a time and place to do homework, have handy supplies, stock up on easy lunch options, freeze some meals or buy simple meals
- Ask for help — if anyone offers to help, take it! Rides, playdates, laundry, sitters, meals, anything helps
- Talk to instructors — let the instructor know you have children, and may receive calls or have an emergency, be on time and show an interest in the material, sit in front, do the work on time and to the best of your ability, if you struggle, talk to the instructor right away.
It’s time for the kids to go back to school. Maybe it’s time for you to go back, too.
One of my most cherished memories is the day my dissertation topic was read at Miller Auditorium. My professor placed the doctoral hood over my head and accepted President Dunn’s congratulations. I looked up to see my husband and three sons on their feet, clapping, shouting and whistling. It wasn’t easy, but what really amazing things are easy?
https://study.com/articles/Parents_Whens_the_Right_Time_to_Go_Back_to_School.html