The summer is super busy for me and my family as I continue to attend school and my kids head to summer camp. 

I organize my summer schedule the same way that I do my fall and spring schedule – completely around my kids and their activities. This summer, however, my husband is scheduled to return from deployment so I need to throw that into the mix as well.

To make room for everything on our daily list, I’ve signed up for morning and early afternoon classes. That way I still have time to enjoy part of the summer with my family without completely wearing myself out.

It’s tough to take classes over the summer since my kids are out of school. But, I want to complete the prerequisites for my nursing program quickly. The only way to do that is to continue hitting the books even while everyone else is taking a break.

I know it’s a sacrifice that we are making as a family, but in the long run, these hard times will pay off. As a military spouse I have an easier time attending classes in the summer than many of my civilian counterparts.

The base has a free summer camp for the kids to attend and the hours fit my schedule. While I’m studying my kids will get to have a great summer and not be cooped up in the house.

If you are considering attending school over the summer start thinking about your schedule in advance. Once you know what classes you’re going to take, map out how you want to spend your summer. Communicate with your family so everyone will know what is happening. 

If you have children, see what camps or activities they can do while you attend class. You can also sign up for an online class instead if there are not childcare options. With a little preparation, you can have a great summer and attend school at the same time.