Students come to university with a range of life experiences, and that may include raising children. An online university like the University of Fredericton makes it easier for parents to return to school than attending on-campus programs. Save that commute for family time.
This article explores practical strategies for managing a parenting schedule while studying. Children are a rewarding part of life, and so is education. So why not combine the two?
The early years
The early days of raising an infant can be tiring. Little ones aren’t always the most reliable when it comes to running on a set sleep schedule. Infants also require a lot of time and attention, which are hard to give up.
But babies’ sleep schedules and routines can allow for pockets of time during the day and into the evening. Nap times and early bedtimes for babies can mean more time freedom, which can be used for studying.
The beauty of online classes is that many happen in the evenings once the baby is down for the night. Group work can be scheduled at your convenience, and other work can be done asynchronously during naptimes or play dates.
Key tips
Find your rhythm, but give yourself a little grace if things aren’t going perfectly according to schedule.
Arrange childcare or an extra set of hands, if possible, so you can focus without worry
Replay lectures in the background while cleaning or folding laundry if you need to juggle tasks
A family of keen learners
When you’re raising toddlers, sometimes the greatest milestone is getting them through the door on their first day of school. Grade school can offer a sense of routine and responsibility, and allow parents to focus on their own aspirations. Some parents who take career breaks use it as an opportunity to return to the workforce after a few years away.
For parents looking to return to the classroom, virtual school can be perfect. Those early years of school are all about setting good habits: time for homework, time for reading and balancing that with time for friends and leisure as well. This is a great opportunity for parents to model that exact same behaviour.
Going to school alongside your children can start great study habits early. When they recognize that you’ve made the decision to keep learning, they’ll be hungry to learn as well. Education is possible at any age.
Key tips
Set a schedule for everyone. Creating designated times for homework and assignment completion can help the entire household stay on task.
Try to align your study schedule with when your kids study. Try to work on assignments during their homework time.
Engage your kids in your study material. Explain to them what you’re working on in language that they can understand. They may even turn into your cheering squad!
Preparing for the road ahead
High school is when many adolescents start to set a vision for what they want to do next, and what sort of career they’re working toward. Others unfortunately check out. Some kids will cut class, and others will stop attending altogether.
Pursuing post-secondary studies as a parent of a teenager is a great way to show your kids what’s possible. It may be your first time studying after years away, or maybe you’re pursuing a graduate program to level up your skills. Either way, it provides the opportunity to set a great example of what hard work and focus can accomplish.
Going back to university while raising teenagers shows them what’s possible. It gives them a chance to see what learning can look like, what the workload might entail and where ambition can guide you.
Key tips
Invite your kids to read some of your textbook or watch part of a recorded course. This can help mentally prepare them for post-secondary expectations.
Set goals together as a family like accomplishing homework, reading and studying together.
Reward great habits! Celebrate your family's grades and wins with something everyone can enjoy.
Where online university fits right in
Studying as a parent is possible. The University of Fredericton is flexible, allowing you to study around your other commitments. You’re often working with classmates from different backgrounds, in different time zones, and with their own scheduling obligations - yet all of you are working toward a common goal: proudly graduating from university.
Juggling school and parenthood can take some careful coordination, but the benefits certainly outweigh the challenge. This is your opportunity to keep your kids engaged and excited about learning — all while celebrating your academic accomplishments together as a family.
To learn more about your study options, explore the program offerings at the University of Fredericton.
