Being a parent and studying too

Being a parent is always more than a full time job so fitting study into this can be very demanding and difficult.

   Getting started

As a parent you learn time management strategies and how to juggle multiple tasks and become expert at it. Apply these skills to your study<

• be organised
• manage time
• use diaries and timetables
• develop lists and plans
• Know what is expected and when work is due. Meet these deadlines. Avoid extensions.

Juggling the demands of the family and study can cause extra stress on you, your partner and family.

Try to keep your partner and older children informed about what you are studying and why, and what support you will need.
Reassure your family that you will still have time for them too.

Keep a watch on how you are coping and your stress levels. It can be very helpful to speak with a counsellor about how you are coping and to develop your skills in this area.

If you are a solo parent, studying is an even bigger challenge. You will need to have adult supports and counsellors can help here.

If you become a parent whilst studying, you will be coping with a great deal. Don’t try to be supermum or superdad. Be realistic about what is possible for you. Use all the supports offered to new parents through your local community and look after yourself through this time.

   Quick tips

• Be realistic about what is possible. It’s better to do well at 1 or 2 subjects than to struggle or fail with a full load.
• Involve those you live with in the timetable. Show them when you will study and need peace and quiet and when you will be available for family life
• Negotiate relief from some household and childcare duties to allow you extra time and distraction free study.
• Keep the main goal in mind – remind yourself why you are doing this and focus on this outcome.

• Deakin Child Care