College moms and kids go to school together
October 19, 2012
When a mom starts to feel the nest growing empty, she might start looking around for things to do besides working the same job or keeping the same hobbies. For a mom who may never have pursued higher education before, with children attending classes regularly, it may seem more appealing to try her hand at university as well. Going to the same school as her children may be a bit strange at first, but there are ways to cope with the transition, and having someone to talk about college fears is always an added benefit.
Don't hang out together
At school, a mom doesn't want to be weighed down by family, but it is nice to know that resource is there. Kids will want to be independent as well, have their own friends and not have to be reminded of parents on a regular basis, so keeping different social circles is a good plan.
For single mother scholarship recipients, focusing more on school and career-building may mean different avenues of studying and networking than a child getting their first strides of independence. Working together on assignments and other academic pursuits is a good plan, but forcing friends on one another is certain cause friction.
Go to the same classes
If it is an option, take the same introductory or 100-level courses. This creates an immediate study buddy, a person to motivate them in class and someone making sure that attendance policies are upheld. A single mom may feel overwhelmed by work or chores, but it is hard to explain to a son or daughter that they are not carpooling to school that day because she's a little too tired. Skipping class is bad for college scholarships, so that extra impetus to get there on time each day should be appreciated.
Don't pry about performance
It is nice to show that mom cares, but kids in college are now independent adults, and trying to pick about grades, friends and homework may not be appreciated. Talking to children like a concerned friend instead of a doting mom can make for better communication and a less stressful home environment, which may in turn translate to making kids more open to talking about deeper issues or concerns.
