2 answers
Sandra
Student
West Palm Beach, Florida
1
Question
Asked
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What study methods as a mom, did you use for the nursing program ?
I’m recently starting to do my Prerequisites and I have a 1 year old, I’m just looking for more tips to try while I study with my daughter.
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2 answers
Allison Nixon
Social Impact
7
Answers
Salt Lake City, Utah
Updated
Allison’s Answer
Hi Sandra!
How exciting that you're diving into a nursing program—congratulations! While I'm not a nurse, I do understand the balancing act of being a working mom with a one-year-old and no childcare. Here are a few tips that might help:
- Encourage your baby to enjoy independent play if they aren't already. It's great for their growth and gives you some study time. Start with short periods and gradually increase as they get more comfortable.
- Think about the types of studying you need to do and how you can pair them with other activities. For example, can you review flashcards during a walk with your little one? Digital flashcards might make this easier. Look for lectures or audio materials you can listen to while doing chores. For more focused study, like reading textbooks, save that for nap time or when your baby is happily playing alone.
- Since time is precious, focus on the study methods that work best for you. Also, find a time management system that supports both your family and study goals.
Best of luck!
How exciting that you're diving into a nursing program—congratulations! While I'm not a nurse, I do understand the balancing act of being a working mom with a one-year-old and no childcare. Here are a few tips that might help:
- Encourage your baby to enjoy independent play if they aren't already. It's great for their growth and gives you some study time. Start with short periods and gradually increase as they get more comfortable.
- Think about the types of studying you need to do and how you can pair them with other activities. For example, can you review flashcards during a walk with your little one? Digital flashcards might make this easier. Look for lectures or audio materials you can listen to while doing chores. For more focused study, like reading textbooks, save that for nap time or when your baby is happily playing alone.
- Since time is precious, focus on the study methods that work best for you. Also, find a time management system that supports both your family and study goals.
Best of luck!
I appreciate this, thank you for the advice.
Sandra
Sidia Wint
CNA/Healthcare Administrative support
2
Answers
Brooklyn Park, MD
Updated
Sidia’s Answer
Hello Sandra,
First of all, congratulations on starting your journey toward a nursing program! It’s definitely a big step, and I can totally understand how balancing studying with a one-year-old can be a challenge. As a mom going through a nursing program (or any intense academic pursuit), it's essential to be flexible, organized, and creative with how you study.
Here are some tips and strategies that worked for me and others who have juggled studying with young children:
1. Create a Study Schedule
Prioritize Your Time: Create a daily or weekly study schedule that aligns with your daughter’s routine. If she takes naps or has a consistent bedtime, that’s your golden study time.
Break Down Study Sessions: Nursing material can be overwhelming, so break it into small chunks. Instead of long study sessions, use 20-30 minute blocks of focused study time. This can be more manageable, and you can sneak in these blocks throughout the day.
Use the Time Wisely: If she’s engaged in play or watching a favorite show for a short time, use that to go over flashcards, read a page or two, or watch a short video lecture.
2. Study When She Sleeps
This might be the most obvious one, but nap time and bedtime are your best friends. I would often set up everything I needed before her nap, so when she slept, I could get right into focused study time.
If your little one still naps during the day, use that window to dive into more intensive study. It’s also a good time to read or review notes without interruptions.
3. Use Audio and Video Resources
Audiobooks or Podcasts: There are tons of nursing-related podcasts and audiobooks that you can listen to while doing housework or even while your daughter plays beside you.
Video Lectures: Platforms like YouTube, Khan Academy, or other online nursing programs often have great video content. You can watch these during moments when your child is preoccupied (like playing with toys) or even when they’re in the car (if you’re doing short trips).
4. Incorporate Your Daughter into Study Time (Where Appropriate)
It’s not always possible, but sometimes you can include your child in light study sessions. For example, you could:
Flashcards: If your daughter is a bit older, use flashcards to quiz yourself and let her play with them.
Reading Aloud: Some material can be read aloud, and your daughter might enjoy hearing you read. It’s multitasking, but it helps you reinforce information.
5. Outsource Tasks When You Can
Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Whether it's a family member, a friend, or even hiring a babysitter for a few hours a week, it’s important to find those moments where you can focus entirely on studying without distraction.
Digital Notes: Keep all your study materials digital so you can access them anywhere — while you’re at home, in the car, or even during doctor’s appointments.
6. Plan for Flexibility
Life with a one-year-old is unpredictable, so flexibility is key. Sometimes, a study session may get interrupted or a planned study block might have to be moved. Don’t stress about it; just adjust and pick up where you can.
Remember to take care of yourself. Nursing programs can be overwhelming, and adding motherhood into the mix can feel like a lot. Prioritize self-care, whether it’s getting a little time for yourself, staying active, or finding a relaxing hobby that keeps you refreshed. Also, Don’t hesitate to lean on your support network when you need it, and always be kind to yourself. You’re doing an amazing job balancing both your studies and being a mom!
Being a mom and a student is definitely a juggling act, but with a bit of planning, flexibility, and self-compassion, you can absolutely succeed in your nursing prerequisites while caring for your daughter. You've got this! 🌟
Leverage Short, Focused Study Sessions With a toddler, it's harder to commit hours at a time to studying. Instead, try microlearning by studying in 10-15 minute intervals. You’d be amazed how much you can absorb in shorter, concentrated bursts of focus.
Use Technology to Your Advantage Apps: Use study apps like Quizlet for flashcards or Anki for spaced repetition. These apps make it easy to study on the go, whether you're waiting for her to fall asleep or sitting in the car.
Communicate with Your Instructors If you're feeling overwhelmed or need accommodations, don’t hesitate to reach out to your instructors or program coordinators. Many nursing programs are understanding and supportive of students with children.
First of all, congratulations on starting your journey toward a nursing program! It’s definitely a big step, and I can totally understand how balancing studying with a one-year-old can be a challenge. As a mom going through a nursing program (or any intense academic pursuit), it's essential to be flexible, organized, and creative with how you study.
Here are some tips and strategies that worked for me and others who have juggled studying with young children:
1. Create a Study Schedule
Prioritize Your Time: Create a daily or weekly study schedule that aligns with your daughter’s routine. If she takes naps or has a consistent bedtime, that’s your golden study time.
Break Down Study Sessions: Nursing material can be overwhelming, so break it into small chunks. Instead of long study sessions, use 20-30 minute blocks of focused study time. This can be more manageable, and you can sneak in these blocks throughout the day.
Use the Time Wisely: If she’s engaged in play or watching a favorite show for a short time, use that to go over flashcards, read a page or two, or watch a short video lecture.
2. Study When She Sleeps
This might be the most obvious one, but nap time and bedtime are your best friends. I would often set up everything I needed before her nap, so when she slept, I could get right into focused study time.
If your little one still naps during the day, use that window to dive into more intensive study. It’s also a good time to read or review notes without interruptions.
3. Use Audio and Video Resources
Audiobooks or Podcasts: There are tons of nursing-related podcasts and audiobooks that you can listen to while doing housework or even while your daughter plays beside you.
Video Lectures: Platforms like YouTube, Khan Academy, or other online nursing programs often have great video content. You can watch these during moments when your child is preoccupied (like playing with toys) or even when they’re in the car (if you’re doing short trips).
4. Incorporate Your Daughter into Study Time (Where Appropriate)
It’s not always possible, but sometimes you can include your child in light study sessions. For example, you could:
Flashcards: If your daughter is a bit older, use flashcards to quiz yourself and let her play with them.
Reading Aloud: Some material can be read aloud, and your daughter might enjoy hearing you read. It’s multitasking, but it helps you reinforce information.
5. Outsource Tasks When You Can
Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Whether it's a family member, a friend, or even hiring a babysitter for a few hours a week, it’s important to find those moments where you can focus entirely on studying without distraction.
Digital Notes: Keep all your study materials digital so you can access them anywhere — while you’re at home, in the car, or even during doctor’s appointments.
6. Plan for Flexibility
Life with a one-year-old is unpredictable, so flexibility is key. Sometimes, a study session may get interrupted or a planned study block might have to be moved. Don’t stress about it; just adjust and pick up where you can.
Remember to take care of yourself. Nursing programs can be overwhelming, and adding motherhood into the mix can feel like a lot. Prioritize self-care, whether it’s getting a little time for yourself, staying active, or finding a relaxing hobby that keeps you refreshed. Also, Don’t hesitate to lean on your support network when you need it, and always be kind to yourself. You’re doing an amazing job balancing both your studies and being a mom!
Being a mom and a student is definitely a juggling act, but with a bit of planning, flexibility, and self-compassion, you can absolutely succeed in your nursing prerequisites while caring for your daughter. You've got this! 🌟
Sidia recommends the following next steps: