Going back to nursing school after having a baby

[Ked1986]

Hi all, I am the mother of a three year old and a 5 month old heading into my 3rd semester of nursing school next week. I have essentially been a stay at mom since my first son was born although he had to attend daycare a few half days last semester at the age of 2. I took the spring semester off because i had another little boy in march (I did my whole second semester pregnant) but now I am feeling absolutely horrible about leaving my exclusively nursed son in daycare almost full time to accomadte the demands of a very intensive semester. I am done in may and I know I just need to get through to then and I can work on a flexible work schedule but every time I think about this upcoming semester I cry. I feel like I won't have any time with my kids between being at school, homework, or studying. It breaks my heart to leave my infant with someone else and I really just don't know how to feel better about it. My husband doesn't seem to understand since he has alwasy worked full time and my school has not been particulary supportive in the past accomadating those of us that have kids. Has anyone been in this situation. Any advice? Thanks..

[ComeTogether, LPN]

Awwww I'm sorry you're so heartbroken. My advice is to just remember you're doing this for your kids. It's hard I am sure to leave your littlest one in daycare while so young but it's going to serve you in the future. Going to school is so much work never mind being a parent (I am waiting until I'm done with school ) on top of it. You've made your decision your goals are set. Keep your eye on the end result and don't let yourself be beaten up in addition to an already hard situation. Best of luck to you!

[NurseToBe3]

I feel your pain. I found out I was pregnant with kiddo number three right before I started my nursing pre-reqs. I took a term off after having her, but I knew if I didn't start back that I never would. Now only have 9 months left in my program, but my kids are feeling neglected. Leaving them never gets easier, but at least they don't remember it when they're that little. I worry that my kids will just remember me studying all the time once they grow up! Good luck!

[Live.&.Learn]

A few days before my first semester of pre-req's I found out I was pregnant with baby #2, my daughter was 5. Things were different the second time around, I had to work and go to school...the baby had to take a bottle It hasn't been easy, the road has been long for sure and after a few set backs I am starting my first semester of 'nursing' classes on monday. My advice to you is manage your time wisely, set aside time for studying and time for the kids and make the best of your time with them. I'm sorry you have to leave your nursing baby, I had many long nights with baby at the breast and books in front of me, it's not easy but you can get through this and they will be okay. Good luck to you, your almost there!!!