Mastering Online Education As A Stay At Home Mom

One look at any stay at home mom’s diary, and it’s a clear insight into the chaos that is today’s modern family. From doctors and dentists appointments, school activities, sports, social events, homework and more, is there any time left for a mom to think about her own future? A future that doesn’t entirely revolve around children? Yes! And now! Here’s why.

Whether families have one or two wage-earners, there is real pressure for Moms to now step forward and be ready to step away from the baby and into the boardroom. Sadly, many of the best jobs require a bachelor’s or even a master’s degree, which takes time and planning. The good news is that, in a world where technology is available to just about everyone, there are now very family friendly options when it comes to earning or finishing that degree or develop new skills. I should know. I completed my bachelors in psychology online when my son was a baby.

There are also many resources and options to help you include tuition fees in your family budget.

Dream a Little Dream

First, ask yourself what you always wanted to be as a child. It may be that spaceman or ballerina is now physically out of the question, but you may have also craved to become a teacher. Perhaps instead, you urge to learn has been inspired by a new talent or passion, such as information technology or public service.

Degree programs today help students realize those dreams by offering much more variety and specialization.

Logged On Learning

Online learning has become the preferred choice for many adult learners with families as it offers flexibility, portability, and affordability. It allows the student to learn at their own pace, in an environment where they can be relaxed and unpressured. Many online campuses offer support groups and ways of communicating with each other to share knowledge. Those who are new to college or are facing specific challenges can turn to fellow students for advice. This can build a real community spirit with fellow learners and prevent isolation.

Students may also share ideas and make personal connections through Facebook and LinkedIn groups.

Money Matters

Paying for college is no small challenge, but there are ways to ease the strain on the family budget. Knowing what’s available is the first step. Options include:

• Federal Student Aid
• Veteran’s Benefits
• Military Tuition Assistance
• Employer Tuition Assistance
• Scholarships

Dealing With Demand

Earning a college degree does take a significant time commitment. Online learning makes it more accessible, as long as you can be completely honest about what you and your family can accomplish. Each degree can be a demanding drain. For example, a masters in engineering management online can take up to 24 months to complete.

Moving Forward

The natural instinct of a parent is to put your family first, to place your own career ideals in the background. Learning online can be a great compromise. You can feel you are bettering your personal experiences and knowledge, as well as learning a paid trade which, in the future, could lead to a far more financially stable situation for your family, you are also still at home to provide the day-to-day care you have always done.

It can also encourage your family to understand that anyone can pursue a dream and that everyone can learn something new, that goals are there to be attained. They may well begin to see you in a new light, especially if you have more homework than them at times!

Have a great night! Thank goodness it is Friday. The first week back after the kid’s Christmas break is hard.