Your Kids and Appointments

I think taking them to things like registration might be ok since you just need to take a few minutes to do it (at least in my previous experiences), but an appiontment with your advisor might be more difficutlt unless they will sit quietly. Do you have a friend you could ask to help out and then offer to watch their kids while they do something another time - a swap like that is always great. How about a parent/grandparent who might be able to help?

No don't take your kids to your appointments. You need to spend that time listening and asking questions in order to figure out how you will get your education not half listening while trying to keep the kids out of trouble. Have your hubby take the day off and leave them home.

Best of luck with your education.

Not a dumb questions at all! And WOW, you are an amazing mom! I don't know how you have the energy for this, but that's incredible! :)

I wouldn't take the kids with me, though. It will be impossible to discuss such important matters with young ones along, and I'm not sure how the advisor would feel about the two of them running around his or her office. I think you're going to have to bite the bullet and get a sitter, or maybe schedule everything for one morning. (Three appts in a row!) That way daddy can watch them without missing too much work.

I'm sure he'll be glad to sacrifice this for you, though. It's no small task you're starting. Good luck!

Hi C.,

I wouldn't recommend taking your kids to your appointments. You need to focus on your schooling and if your kids are with you, your attention will be directed at them. You will have a lot of paperwork to fill out and will probably meet with administrators who are there to answer questions and get you started on the right track.

Are there any Mother's Day Out programs in your area? Or a drop-in daycare facility? I've also had some success finding babysitters on Craigslist or SitterCity. Those might be better options for you rather than having your husband take a day off from work.

Good luck with your new endeavors!

I know how hard it can be to juggle motherhood and trying to start a new adventure. I would say that if you are in an absolute bind, then take them with you. The reality is that you are a SAHM and sometimes you don't have the extra help. Put them in the stroller, bring toys, snacks, etc. See if you can go when they are well rested, so they don't get cranky.

I would also call and ask how long the process would take. If it's short, then maybe your hubby can take an extended lunch while you do what you have to do. If he can get out of work for the day, then by all means, let him. If its only a short time that you are gone, turn it into a family day and enjoy it.

I know its hard but make the decision that is best for you. Hope this helps.

Congratulations on deciding to go back to school! Good for you. As long as your appointments are not with an admissions counselor or an advisor - you should be fine. I would not recommend bringing the kids to an appointment where you will be sitting down and talking to someone. But registering and paying your tuition - sure, bring them along!

Give yourself a break - this isn't a dumb question at all! I wouldn't suggest bringing your kids to advisement or registration unless you are basically going in with your schedule completed and just need someone to sign off. Do you have to register on campus or is it on-line? You may be able to do your registration right from home. It would also be worth a shot to call your advisor or the department secretary (if you haven't already)and see if there is anyway you could reschedule for an evening appointment - communicate your situation.

wow, you sure did get a lot of conflicting advice here :) i think the bottom line is that you have to do what you have to do. it depends on the appt and on your kids. if you have a comfortable stroller for them and you think they will stay occupied and the particular appt will be simple enough, then go for it. if your only concern is feeling wierd, well, who cares? try to be creative in your scheduling if you can, maybe schedule everything that will really need your undivided attention for the same day, and hubby can just take that day. or what about paying a local teenager to just sort of be a mommys helper, to go with you to just keep them occupied? either way, i wish you the best of luck, congrats on your decision, it will work out.