How to juggle your legal studies and your responsibilities as a parent

A few short decades ago, women stayed at home and looked after the family, while their husbands and partners went out to work. Jump forward through time a little more, and it appeared that women had to choose between having a family or having a career, fast forward to 2020 and it’s perfectly doable for women to have both. 

More women than ever before are heading back to education so they can study for the career they want, provide for their children with a strong and stable home life, and create a sense of success for themselves. As a mother who chooses to balance both family life and her studies, you’re going to face a lot of challenges, especially if you’re studying to become a personal injury lawyer and you’re facing several years of intense study.

It’s important to know that things won’t be simple and straightforward, but thanks to some simple planning and dedication, you’ll be able to have the best of both worlds. Read on for how to juggle your legal studies and your responsibilities as a parent.

Make mealtimes a breeze

As a parent, family mealtimes are crucial. It’s a chance for everyone to reconnect and enjoy a meal together. However, when you’re studying it’s easy to neglect your own meals and swap healthy nutritious meals for something quick and easy you can throw in the oven. To make the most of your time, plan as many meals in advance as you can and freeze them. This way everyone can still enjoy a home-cooked meal, and you can spend time studying rather than slaving over a hot stove every night of the week.

Look at your calendars

You now have two calendars. Your study calendar, filled with deadlines, modules and reading lists. And your family calendar, filled with dental appointments, playdates and other social and school-related commitments. Go through your obligations as far in advance as possible and correlate them as much as you can. The more prepared you are, the easier you’ll be able to find time to study and be the active, present parent your children need you to be. 

Make a study schedule 

When you get your course curriculum, you’ll have a better understanding of where you need to be at certain stages of your course. Knowing when papers are due as well as exams will help you create a study schedule that can fit around your home life. 

Work with the kids

If the kids have set homework time, set your own study space up with them. Spending quiet time together studying is beneficial for all of you and you’re also setting a great example for your children.

Finally, ask for help

Don’t be afraid to ask for help. You probably have a whole host of relatives and friends who are just waiting to help you. So, ask your parents to take the kids for a couple of hours, or see if a friend can pick up a prescription for you. You should also take full advantage of the assistance available to you through your course. Reach out to your tutor, ask for extensions and communicate!