Those who are doing NS with young children

[reidesert]

I know that there is a lot of us parents out there that are doing nursing school with young children. I am fortunate to not have to work outside of the home. I have been a stay at home mom for my soon to be three year old and 3 month old. I am also fortunate to have my family's support. My mom will be caring for my children and my sister who is a quad at home while attend class and clinical s since my husband does have to work full time (he is in banking). I have already talked it over with my daughter (who is 3) and she adamant that she does NOT want me to go to school. I went today to buy some of my school supplies and ending up getting her a few things as well. I was thinking of making her a "special study bag" that I can pull out when I am studying-so that we can do "school" together. I was thinking of filling it with coloring pages, little puzzles, paints etc...I know she is going to have a difficult time but I will make it a point to try and not deviate too far from our current schedule at home that is filled with fun trips to the library story time and the museum and reading and crafts at home. Does anyone have any suggestions for me to make this transition smooth? I already brought out my much hated breastpump so I can start a stash for my 3 month old. They both LOVE grandma so I know that they will be happy. Just thinking about leaving them makes me cry though. I know this will be worth it in the end. If you got this far thanks for letting me ramble and for listening. Please feel free to share your experience or advice. I really need a little encouragement and a whole lot of organization if I am going to make this work.

[Cassideca]

I have a 6 year old, 4 year old, and a 3 year old. I started nursing school when my youngest was 1.

I have a 3.95 GPA (got my first A- after I wound up with cancer over the summer break last year, but went back to school 3 weeks later after a craniotomy) and manage to get the kids to soccer, gymnastics, etc. However, it does take a supportive husband who is willing to do things like bath and bed on the nights I need to study (usually the nights before exams).

I am always told it is amazing that I am able to do it all, but truly it's all about time management.

Wow, Ericka---- You are truly an amazing person! Thats what I call the purpose driven.

Well, my situation is nothing compared to yours, but I am 32 and starting my 2nd & final yr of Nursing school here in Central CA. I always try to do something special with each of my girls every 2 wks or so.

My youngest was 6 wks when I started school, along with my then 3 & 12yr old girls. I sometimes feel guilty that I havent had the baby time with her as I did w/ my others. In the long run, I am in school to acheive my goal as an RN, better our family's future, and give them the things I didnt have as a kid.

You can do it! Make sure you have great support ststem & set aside time to STUDY! & Find a good study group within your class.

My school days are tues- Thurs. But my youngest are in daycare 4 days a wk, so I have that extra day for pt research & study time. I have an amazing hubby ( he takes all 3 kids the mornings that my clinicals start at 0545), although at times its trying.

Keep thinking positivie, take a deep breath & dive right in!!!!

Dee ;0)

[mamac0805]

I was pregnant through nursing school and now have a 1 year old during nursing school (jeez, time flies). It does get hard sometimes, I just keep telling myself that I am doing this for her to better OUR family. I try my hardest to come home after school and cuddle and play with her for a while and then I sit on the floor beside her while she plays and begin to study. You know, some of the pages are torn and crusted with slobber but it is definately worth it. It is a balancing act, but with a routine it will work. She goes to bed around 7:30 then I make sure to focus the rest of the night too "hard" studytime. Just remember why you are wanting to do it. It's worth it. Plus, your ideas about the "study bag" are excellent! Good luck!