It's not easy returning to school and taking care of your family as well. It is even more difficult if you work outside of the home. How can you make school a good fit with everything else you have to do?

Whether you are thinking of returning to school full-time or part-time, remember that it will take some organization on your part and understanding and cooperation from family members. Once you have made your decision, talk to your spouse and children; and anyone else who will be affected by your absence from home. Explain how some things will change for awhile, cleaning, cooking, chores, etc. Let your family know that you will need their help in some of these areas. Ask friends to respect your study time by limiting telephone calls during these hours.

Do not save your studying or your school assignments for one particular day or weekends only. You will lose ground if an emergency arises and that time cannot be used for study or home work. Try to use at least two solid hours each week day for school. Perhaps you can study an hour before you awaken your family and one hour after everyone has gone to bed. Talk this over with your spouse to make sure there is an understanding if this is usually the time you share with one another. If your children have reached the age where they have an hour or so of home work in the evening, this could be a good time for you to study also.

If you work outside the home use your lunch hour to study. Make it your business to bring a light lunch from home, you will save money and gain precious study time. Find a quiet spot, an unused office, file room or stock room, any place where you won't be disturbed. Studying in your lunch room requires a little ingenuity. If you must use the lunch room let your co-worker’s that you are using your hour to study for class, most will understand and leave you alone. Generally people hesitate to talk to you when you are listening to your personal radio. Invest in a small portable radio with earphones. Keep it low and set on the music station of your choice or fake everyone out and don't turn the radio on at all.

You may be asked why you are going back to school. Don't be embarrassed to share your reasons; this is an important time in your life.

Distance learning is an alternative to a brick and mortar school. Check out BellaOnline's Distance Learning site. Also see USA Department of Education/Students