How to fit career retraining around raising a family

As a parent like myself, sometimes it can be difficult to juggle raising your family and focusing on your career. However, it’s important that you don’t put your own dreams and aspirations on the back burner – and finding the time to steer your career in a different direction doesn’t have to be difficult. To discover how you can fit retraining around looking after your brood, keep reading.

 

Take advantage of online learning

When it comes to retraining, you may need to enrol on a course relevant to the career path you want to follow. You could choose to sign up for classroom-based learning. However, as a parent, it can be difficult finding the time to attend classes. Instead, you could take advantage of online learning. As long as you have a laptop or computer and an internet connection, you can work through the material at a time that suits you.

 

Choose your study time wisely

Choosing your study time wisely is an absolute must – but this can be easier said than done if you’ve got little ones to look after. If you’re a stay-at-home parent, you might be able seize the opportunity to knuckle down during the day. Planning fun activities for your little ones could help keep them occupied, giving you time to concentrate on your homework. You could also make the most of the peace and quiet at nap time.

If you work, whether it’s full-time, part-time or from home, it can be a little more tricky to fit in your studies. In this instance, you might find that evenings and weekends are the best times to focus on your work.

 

Keep your kids in the loop

If your kids are old enough to understand, it might be worth keeping them updated on exactly what you’re doing. By explaining the importance of your studies to them, it may encourage them to be more respectful of your time and space around the house. So that they fully understand, make sure you explain the situation in a clear, calm and serious manner.

 

Don’t be afraid to ask for help

If you’re struggling to find a balance between caring for your family and squeezing in your studies, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Whether you arrange for a friend or family member to care for your little ones a couple days in the week or you leave them with a neighbour for the afternoon, reaching out to those around you for support could really help. Aside from allowing you to focus on your learning, it’s likely your kids will enjoy the change of environment too.

Even if you’re a busy parent, keeping these tips in mind should help you find a way to fit in your career retraining.

 

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