As a mother, you know it’s entirely feasible at times to make the impossible possible. You run a household, manage the budget, care for the family pet and raise children. You coordinate transportation, meetings and sports events. You network with your extended family and friends. You tutor your children. Either going back 
to school or starting school isn’t as difficult as it may seem even with the busiest home schedules and routines. All it takes is a little planning and a few hours each day, and you, too, can realize your higher education degree dreams.
Planning
The first step is an obvious one: You have to know what degree you want and its availability. Once you have that information and can evaluate the course timing and duration, it’s time to get down to the nitty gritty—making it happen.
Do you want a classroom environment or a virtual one—an online course? There are advantages and disadvantages to each; know your limitations and desires. Moms often prefer the online venue for versatility and ease of access.
What hours do you have when the kids are in school and later? You have prime course work time during those spans. Utilize it for connecting with your professors and teaching assistants. Download course material. Do homework. Laundry can intersperse with bookwork, not to worry.
Do you work during the day? That’s okay. You can still take evening and weekend classes. Adjust your study time to before and after the kids wake up or after they go to bed. Take a day over the weekend to dedicate toward your own school work.
Where can you work easily? The kitchen or dining room table works well if you don’t have a desk. You just need access to your computer and more so if you take online courses.
What resources are available for babysitting or alternate emergency contact if your class overlaps ‘kid time?’ Well, remember that networking you do? Ask friends, neighbors and family members if they could watch your children during that short overlap time. Your significant other may be able to pitch in with a day or a few hours.
Contact the local YMCA or the YWCA for available after-school programs in which your children might be interested. Local libraries may have suitable activities that can help occupy their time, too. While you go to school, your children, if old enough, can start or complete their homework, making that possibility a win-win situation. You can check it with them after you both finish.
Can you share study time? Studying while you prepare supper can be difficult and distracting. Can you enlist a partner’s help? Study your course material while the children study theirs. Extend the family time during supper to the few hours after it. Make family study time around the dining room table a regular event. It’s an easy way to keep track of how your children are doing in school, and you set a fantastic example for them.
Plan Execution
You’ve covered all the bases you can. Now it’s time to actually do it. Being nervous is understandable, but it’s going to be worth it.
Enroll in the degree program you want. If you’d prefer to dip your toes before plunging in with both feet, that’s okay. Enroll in one or two courses that will apply toward your degree. Use the experience to identify snags and overcome them. When you’re ready, apply those courses toward a degree program, and you’ll have that degree practically before you know it.
Use your time wisely. You’re organized enough to tackle this and come out ahead. Your children may intellectually understand that education is important, but the life lesson you show them will leave an indelible imprint and improve the lives of your entire family.
You have wanted it for years. You can accomplish that goal and make that dream a reality. Finally get your degree!
About the Author
JC Ryan is a freelance writer for MyCollegesandCareers.com. My Colleges and Careers helps people determine if an online education is right for them and helps them search for online degrees that can help them reach their goals.