Tips for College Moms

Not only am I a stay at home mom but I'm also a college student. I've come across more and more non-working mothers who are attending college, especially as their young children are now entering school. I'm often told by working college students that they wish they could trade places with me. I typically just laugh. If they only knew.

People seem to think I have all this free time to study. I have one 3 year old and 2 year old twins. There is absolutely no place in my house that I can go that is considered even remotely quiet. Contrary to what some people believe, raising children is hard work! Oftentimes I find myself struggling with balancing both college and my job as mom. Here are five things you can do to make yourself successful in college.

1. Study when you can. If you have children that take their time eating, do a little studying at the table as you wait for them. I would also find myself sitting on the bathroom floor studying as my children played in the bath tub. These 15 minute periods add up, so take advantage of them.

2. Find a place where you can study undisturbed for longer periods of time when you have to. If you have to go to the library to study, do so. I am easily distracted by my children, even if I lock myself in my room for a study session while my husband watches them. I'll put on a headset and play classical music while I do homework or study. This helps keep me focused so I'm not distracted by little noises my children may make.

3. Make time to study. Don't put off your homework or studying. It's easy to put your college on the back burner when you have children to care for. You shouldn't feel guilty for taking time to take care of your schooling. You're doing it to better yourself and your family.

4. Don't skip classes. You might feel a bit guilty at time about having to go to school, especially when your child is saying he wants to go with you. Don't let yourself be swayed. You'll be back home and into the role of mommy again in no time.