I had my first child when I was in high school. Due to problems living with my parents, I dropped out and went to work. Twelve years later and three more kids later, I went to high school online and got my diploma! At age thirty I graduated from high school and now I going on to get my degree in Social Services through a distant learning college, almost all materials are online and I choose when I will go to school. How do I do this with four children thirteen and under? I plan each day to the hour.

First I went to Office Max and bought a daily plan calendar, it has every hour starting from 7am and goes to 11pm. I write all things that have to be done that day, who does it and when. I make sure to carry it every where and write every obligation I have in it. Some examples include: Girl Scout meetings for my six year old, church functions and ministry me and my family are involved in, separate time with each one of my kids, grocery day, wash times, housecleaning, shows I watch on TV and of course, when I need to take time for school.

Second I determine the times I can sit down and concentrate on school with minimal or no interruptions. Examples of these times are: when my my six and seven year old are in school. When my three year old is absorbed in Dora the Explorer or other children's programing and my oldest is doing her homeschooling work. These times are rare but every minute counts. I do most after the kids are in bed. My husband gives bathes and puts the younger kids to bed, while I get to studying.

I even take my laptop to work on school work while I wait for appointments. I even read out loud while my three your old sits on my lap;she loves it.No matter how busy life may seem for you, if you really want this you can make the time, good luck!

Learn more about this author, Shannon Brendlinger.
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