When you grow up and you dream about going to the college of your dreams the last thing you are thinking of doing is scheduling diaper changes around your classes.
But some, whether planned or not, find this to be their reality.
In this economic time, being a parent while attending college can not only be difficult, but damned near impossible.
But thanks to programs like the Cooperative Agencies Resources for Education (CARE) program, Extended Opportunity Program and Services (EOP&S) and CalWorks, parents are getting a better education while taking care of their children.
These programs provide student parents with ways to acquire food, financial assistance, the ability to get a better education and the peace of mind in knowing that their child’s needs will be met.
During the holidays, the C.A.R.E./Cal Works program even provides the opportunity for those interested in giving back to “adopt” a family.  Once signing up, they can purchase gifts for needy families who cannot afford Christmas gifts.
Think about it, without these programs parents would have to work harder to try and maintain their grades and their sanity.
Trying to attend college full-time is hard enough for students, period.
So to be a parent and a student shows great resilience and determination.
Regardless, times are changing and changing for the better for student parents.
Parents can now attend the classes they need while their children are in childcare.
Not only do these programs help parents care for their children, they also provide them with the tools to be better parents.
Parents are also provided with counseling and mentorship to help them deal with the stresses of not only being a parent, but a student parent.
Although these programs do help students, it is up to the parent to apply themselves to not only these programs but to all programs that are available to them.
Remember, parents, that you are not the only one benefiting from these programs.
Your child is also benefiting by you setting a good example and building a strong foundation for your child.
However programs like these are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to parents juggling college and parenting.
At the end of the day, parents still need to practice proper time management, be accountable for their actions and set realistic goals.