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Writer's pictureAshley

Should You Go Back to School after Having Kids?

If you're a parent and are thinking about going back to school, you're not alone. According to the Pew Research Center, one in five parents return to college or graduate school within 10 years of having their first child. The reasons for this vary widely, but there's no doubt that returning can be an opportunity for self-improvement. If you're considering going back to school after having kids — or even just thinking about returning as an option — here's what you need to know:


If you’re worried about finding time to balance work and school, there are many flexible options to consider


If you’re worried about finding time to balance work and school, there are many flexible options to consider. Most colleges have online classes available for students who want a more convenient learning experience. There are also many classes that can be taken at your own pace, allowing you to study at a time of day that works best for your schedule. Another benefit is that online classes generally cost less than traditional ones and may even be offered for free!


To find out if an online program might be right for your situation, visit the website of the college or university offering the degree program(s) you're interested in studying. You can browse their list of courses and even register for some free mock courses before deciding whether or not it's worth paying tuition fees (and taxes!) if they're listed on there too!


Student loans can be a powerful way to finance further education


If you're worried about the cost of going back to school, student loans are a powerful way to finance further education. If you have student loans, they can be a great way to pay for school and improve your career prospects. However, if you don't qualify or have difficulty managing your payments, this option might not be the best choice for you.


You want to find a program that you’re passionate about


If you’re going back to school after having kids, it’s important to find a program that you are passionate about. If the subject matter interests you and appeals to your talents, then it will be easier for you to work hard and succeed in the class. If a particular subject has always been one of your favorite things, it will make it easier for you to enjoy what you are learning. In addition, being passionate about something can help explain why you want to go back to school in the first place so people understand why this is important for your life moving forward.


Finding a program that fits your lifestyle and schedule is key


Finally, you want to make sure that the program is one that fits your lifestyle and schedule. If you have kids and can only attend classes during the evening, it’s not going to work for you. Likewise, if you work full-time but would prefer an online course option because it would give you more flexibility in terms of when and how often you could get away from work, then go for it!


Don’t forget about other factors as well! For example, if there are specific topics that interest or fascinate you professionally but aren't currently part of your job description at all (e.g., marketing analytics), then look into programs that teach those skills so they can supplement what's already being learned at work.


Finally—and perhaps most importantly—make sure whatever program(s) seem like a good fit align with your budget! There are tons of options out there ranging from free classes offered by local universities (e.g., Coursera) all the way up through expensive private institutions (e.g., Harvard). Choose wisely so as not to waste money unnecessarily on something unhelpful or irrelevant; instead invest wisely where necessary so as much return on investment possible."


You do not need to be perfect on paper or in the classroom


Do you need to be perfect on paper or in the classroom? No, absolutely not. In fact, going back to school after having kids can help you become a better student and show your dedication to your education. You might be surprised at how much more motivated you are when it comes to schoolwork when there is an end goal in sight.


It’s also important that you don’t look at the experience of going back to school as an excuse for failure. Many people find themselves overwhelmed with taking care of children or other family members while trying to keep up with their studies; this can lead them down a path of unhappiness, anger and resentment toward their loved ones rather than doing what they need most: caring for themselves first while also caring for others (the latter being something we all have problems with).


There are ways to take care of your family while attending college


Being a mother is an incredibly fulfilling and important job, but it can be difficult to find time for your own education. The good news is that there are options available for busy parents who want to further their education.


If you’re interested in going back to school while your kids are young, the best thing you can do is talk with someone who has already done it themselves! Your friends and family may have some great advice on how they were able to successfully balance work and family life while attending college. If you don't know anyone who went back to school after having children, don't worry! With the right plan, you can be ready to go back to school!


Going back to school is not for everyone, but if you are thinking about it, it’s important to know all your options. You can take classes online, at night and on weekends—all from the comfort of home. If finding time for both work and school seems impossible, there are many programs that offer flexible scheduling options and even financial aid.

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