Going back to school is never easy – even when it’s to secure the training needed to change careers or land a dream job. Many students have plenty of important responsibilities that can’t easily be put on pause during their studies. A full- or part-time job, friends, and family commitments can all take up precious time. For working parents especially, striking a solid work/study/life balance can be hard.

Fortunately, it’s not all bad news. Many colleges know just how important other commitments can be, and work hard to offer courses at convenient times as well as plenty of support to students. In addition, there are plenty of great tips and tricks that you can use to ease the transition back to school. Whether you want to complete business courses to secure a lucrative promotion, achieve your dream by enrolling in a police foundations program, or give back to your community by taking on a career in healthcare, you can reach your goals.

Here are some of the study tips you can use to make the most of your time, and obtain the training you’ve always wanted.

Essential Study Tips for Working Parents

Going back to school can be a big time commitment.

For working parents, it can be difficult to make time for studies, and use study time effectively.

Here are some tips to help you free up time, stay refreshed, and remember coursework!

Planning Ahead Can Be a Big Help

• Write up a schedule or calendar
• Make sure to mark down important deadlines
• Include important family events you don’t want to miss
• Allocate time for studying
• Make sure to include plenty of “me time” as well!

Pro tip: Show your schedule to your kids and partner. This will help them know when you might need to study more in preparation for a big test or assignment.

Use Time-Saving Tricks Around the House

• Pay bills and purchase groceries online
• Automate payments where possible
• Make meals ahead of time and freeze them for later use
• Use different laundry baskets to pre-sort clothes

Make Study Time a Family Activity

• Establish ground rules, such as staying quiet
• Encourage your kids to ask for help only after study time is over
• Make sure that the study space is free of distractions
• Give yourself and your children a reward after studying!
• Studying with your children sets a great example

Use Study Time Effectively

• Study on public transit and during short breaks in your day
• Dedicate a quiet place at home to studying
• Write notes by hand to remember them better
• Read material out loud to help recall lessons easily
• Quiz yourself to check your progress
• Colour code notes to make them easier to remember

Pro tip: Switching between several topics in one study session can help boost your problem-solving skills!

Make Use of Your Support Network

• Talk to your partner about dividing responsibilities
• Ask kids to complete small chores
• Start a study group with classmates
• Ask teachers for help if you don’t understand material

Don’t Forget to Make Time for Yourself!

• Be sure to eat a complete breakfast
• Get plenty of sleep to feel refreshed
• Make time for activities you enjoy
• Reward yourself and celebrate achievements!

Sources:

https://www.ici.net.au/blog/7-practical-strategies-for-balancing-parenting-and-study/
http://www.essentialbaby.com.au/life-style/family-home/tips-for-studying-while-raising-young-kids-20150109-3nt5h
https://www.workingmother.com/practical-tips-for-moms-balancing-kids-studies-and-work#page-2
https://www.wikihow.com/Study-when-You-Have-Children
https://www.entrepreneur.com/article/244230
https://experthometips.com/45-time-saving-hacks-for-a-more-relaxed-you
https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/n1/pub/11-008-x/2011002/t/11520/tbl004-eng.htm
https://greatist.com/happiness/better-study-tips-test