New Student needing some serious advice

Goldenhare · Jan 17, 2006

If you wanna do it, this is the place to be! We will cheer you on!!

Have you considered

1) Advertising on campus for a sitter, someone maybe majoring in early childhood development? Ask people who work in that department for leads

2) Senior citizens centers

3) Advertising for a live in sitter for when your husband ships out. Childcare in exchange for room and maybe board. You will need time to study as well.

Remember to ask for and follow up references.

ALSO I don't know about your state but in some states, you can go to school for your RN and work after 1 year as an LPN (of course, you must take to LPN boards first) I'm told that your state board of nursing would have the details.

Good Luck!!

karmyk · Jan 17, 2006

Does your husband have any friends who you trust with watching your kids at night?

We never really had to babysit for anyone, but when a couple of the guys who worked for me deployed overseas, their wives were pregnant. Whenever they needed any help at home-- even if it was something as basic as lifting a package that arrived or getting a ride to the hospital-- their wives simply had to call one of our phone numbers, and we'd help them out as soon as we could. Even when heavy rainstorms or hurricanes were headed in our direction, we would all go to the homes of the deployed soldiers to help their families make their homes as safe as possible for the incoming storms... He might want to look into that. Military SHOULD take care of their own-- especially for the family of deployed personnel.

**RosesrReder, BSN, MSN, RN** · Jan 17, 2006

I would advertise for a live in sitter or a sitter to come watch them in your home at night. You have to start the interview and screening process before beginning school.

Good luck

L&D_2b · Jan 17, 2006

I would try a local university or community college for an early childhood major as a sitter. They usually have classroom assignments that require them to spend a certain amount of time with young children. Your children fit that age perfectly. (I know this from experience since my bachelors degree is in Early Childhood). It might be a win/win situation for the both of you.

I am a 25 yr old mom of three young kids (5,3 & 1) and a wife to a US navy sailor. I am starting back school going for my LPN, I am a little scared but very excited. I will be taking my classes at night, my husband will be leaving in aug. of this year. I don't what to do with my kids. I have tried to find childcare at night which I can afford but have not. I am down to a LPN. I always wanted to become a peds dr., after my first child; I said I will get my RN. I don't have much people cheering me on but my husband and my mother. Friends and family don't really think I can do it because I am in cali with no family or friends to help. Does anyone have any advice.

1Tulip · Jan 17, 2006

I think all of these are good suggestions and you should look into them. But if you read these pages very much you'll discover a LOT of nurses have achieved their RN license in increments. The most common starting point is the CNA. Much more brief educational program, much cheaper. Gives you bedside experience that will help when your husband is more available and you're ready for the next rung in the latter.

Just an option.

Your problem is not unusual. Even if parenting demands slow you down, they by no means necessarily stop you from reaching your dream.

swillie02 · Jan 17, 2006

thank you guys so much for the information. I will look into them. The only friends my husband has are all military. And the few wives I have met wasn't very friendly, that's why I usually keep to myself. but thanks again, I really appreciate it. :rolleyes:

chris_at_lucas_RN, RN · Jan 17, 2006

What about trading sitter services with another student, maybe a day program nursing student?

Ask at the nursing program office--they may know of someone in a similar situation, or if your school has an actual housing office, sometimes there is a bulletin board of people wanting roommates, etc. Similar idea.

Definitely check references unless you know someone who knows them (like the nursing school office). And trust your gut. If it doesn't feel right, move on to the next option.

And don't give up on your RN. Becoming an LVN/LPN first is actually a very sane path. Get that license, then while you are working and making a little money, do a bridge program. There are several that are self-paced--check out Excelsior College when the time comes.

Good luck!

Kwality · Jan 18, 2006

Is your mother available to keep the kids? Do you have a church home? If so, they could probably help find a sitter. Are you close with any of your neighbors? The Naval base may have some references for sitters.

swillie02 · Jan 18, 2006

My mother is will to take my kids, but I am from the US virgin islands and that would mean I would not see my kids for a whole year. I don't know if I could do that. But I am still looking around. thanks

ldonohue74 · Jan 18, 2006

As a veteran of the military (93-97 USMC) I witnessed many with your situation. I have been out for quite some time now, married w/two kids, and getting ready to start in April for LPN school. I have all my family and friends around me here in NJ, but everyone works! I will have help for 3 days (program is Mon-Fri all day). Anyway, my point is that it's hard enough for me to find care for the remaining days and I really feel for you. But, take that advice and try to find a sitter. Take advantage of your youth, it will pay off for you and your children in the long run! God Bless Our Troops

stpauligirl · Jan 18, 2006

I am a 25 yr old mom of three young kids (5,3 & 1) and a wife to a US navy sailor. I am starting back school going for my LPN, I am a little scared but very excited. I will be taking my classes at night, my husband will be leaving in aug. of this year. I don't what to do with my kids. I have tried to find childcare at night which I can afford but have not. I am down to a LPN. I always wanted to become a peds dr., after my first child; I said I will get my RN. I don't have much people cheering me on but my husband and my mother. Friends and family don't really think I can do it because I am in cali with no family or friends to help. Does anyone have any advice.

I am also a military wife and my husband is leaving for god knows how long this coming Sunday. I have an eight year old left to take care of.

Have you checked with Family Child Care on your base they usually have a list of certified childcare providers that live on and off base, there has to be somebody who takes kids nights.