Making Online College Classes Work With A Newborn

Are you considering taking online college classes while adjusting to life with a newborn? If so, you might be bouncing between “Online classes are totally doable,” and “Am I crazy to even consider this right now?” Taking online classes with a newborn is definitely possible, especially with some thoughtful planning, clear communication, and a little bit of support.

Online Classes: A Flexible Path for New Moms
Online classes can be a lifeline to new moms because they offer flexibility to work around feeding, nap schedules, and postpartum chaos. Taking classes at home means you can watch lectures at times that work for you, study in a comfortable space, take breaks when you need to, and be there for your baby without worrying about disrupting the classroom. Less commuting, more rest, and easier access to privacy can make continuing your education more manageable during this stage of life. 

However, it’s still important to set realistic expectations for yourself when heading into a new semester with a newborn. Most babies have fairly unpredictable schedules for the first few months of life. The truth is, this will also add unpredictability to your schedule. You might find yourself getting tired or working around interruptions. It’s common to feel pulled in two directions, feeling guilty for focusing on your homework instead of your baby, and for focusing on your baby instead of doing homework. Finding balance takes a little time and patience, but the advantage of online classes is that they make balance more achievable.

Here are a few tips that might help you find a new rhythm in your daily life:

• Work 10-30 minutes at a time. By working in short bursts whenever you can, moments of focused effort add up.
  
• Use hands-free tools. Use voice typing for discussion posts or take notes with voice memos. 
  
• Rest when you can. Take a nap when you need it, even if it’s not at the most ideal time. 
  
• Prioritize the most important assignments. Focus on the assignments that will impact your grade the most.
  
• Redefine what success can look like. Completing an assignment on time might be more important than completing it perfectly.
  
• Adjust your pace. It’s ok if you need to temporarily take a lighter course load or work at a slower pace. 
  
• Let go of unnecessary pressure. There’s no “right” way to get through college as a new mom, so do what works for you.
  

If you’re struggling to balance caring for a newborn while continuing your education, enrolling in online classes can make it easier to manage both your academic goals and your responsibilities at home.

Helping Your Friends and Family Help You
If you have an attentive partner, caring family, or invested friends, communicating your needs clearly can help your loved ones support you. You might be surprised at how eager they are to help if they just know how! Here are a few ways to ask your friends and family to support you while also avoiding misunderstandings:

• Instead of “Can you help more with the baby?” try “Can you take the baby from 2-4pm today so I can finish my assignment?”
  
• Instead of “I’m not doing well,” say “I’m feeling discouraged. Can I vent for a few minutes?”
  
• Instead of “I’m exhausted,” try “I didn’t sleep much last night. Would you be able to take the baby for an hour this afternoon so I can nap?”
  

Being specific about what kind of help you need and being honest about how you’re managing can remove the barrier for people who want to help but don’t know what would be useful. You can always follow up your requests with “If that doesn’t work, I understand” to leave room for “no.”

Support groups can also play a key role in helping you feel less alone and find coping strategies that fit this unique season in your life. While your friends and family might be very supportive, they may not fully understand what you’re experiencing. Connecting with others, either in person or online, who are navigating something similar can provide much-needed empathy and validation.

If you’re a student navigating an unexpected pregnancy and struggling to build a support system before your newborn arrives, reach out to our team at The Avi Project. No student should have to go through this alone, and we’re dedicated to walking with students through this journey. Call or text ​720-386- 6009. It’s free and confidential.

Helping Your Professors Help You
Communicating with your professors early in the semester can help things run more smoothly. Here’s an example of an email that can help you be transparent while still maintaining professionalism.

Dear Professor [Last Name],

I wanted to briefly introduce myself and share that I recently welcomed a newborn. I’m committed to staying on track in the course, but I may reach out if any unexpected challenges come up. Please let me know if there’s anything specific you recommend to stay on track in your course. I appreciate your understanding and look forward to the semester.

Best,
[Your Name]

Remember, you’re not asking for special treatment. You’re helping your professor help you succeed in their class, which is what they’re there for! 

You may find yourself asking for extensions on deadlines. Here’s another example of an email to make that request in a respectful manner.

Dear Professor [Last Name],

I’m following up regarding my earlier note about having a newborn at home. I wanted to ask if a brief extension on this assignment might be possible, as this week has been more unpredictable than expected. Would it be possible to have an extension until [date]? I appreciate your consideration.

Best,
[Your Name]

Many professors want to support their students and appreciate clear, respectful communication. Introducing yourself early can make it easier to ask for help later. Consistent communication shows that you take your education seriously, and professors may be more open to working with you when challenges arise.

Going To College With A Baby
Many students continue their education during pregnancy and after having a baby, and go on to graduate and build meaningful careers. Having a baby doesn’t mean you have to give up your dreams. If you’re a student navigating an unplanned pregnancy, our team is available 24/7 via phone call or text message at 720-386-6009. Our mission is to help new moms identify their options, make a plan, and access the resources they need to move forward with confidence and competence.