Money Makers - How Stay-at-Home Parents Can Go Back to School and Rebuild Their Careers

 Stay-at-home parents and caregivers of young children often feel the squeeze when it’s time to restart a career: a resume gap, rusty confidence, fast-changing workplace expectations, and the constant question of who keeps kids safe while work, or classes, happen. Returning to school can reduce those career reentry challenges by turning workforce reintegration into a structured transition instead of a leap. The real hurdle is creating a workable family and learning balance when time, money, and energy are already stretched, especially for families managing special needs. With the right education for parents, reentry can become deliberate and credible.

Quick Summary: Returning to School as a Parent

• Choose affordable degree options that match your career goals and budget.

• Build business skills that translate into stronger job opportunities and career flexibility.

• Balance parenting and school by setting clear priorities and realistic expectations.

• Manage time with parent-friendly schedules and routines that protect study blocks.

Understanding Career-Focused School Choices

A practical way back to work is to match education to real hiring demand, not just personal interest. Start by comparing flexible programs that build business skills you can use in many roles, then test one path in detail. Many parents use healthcare administration as a model because healthcare administration focuses on managing healthcare organizations and has clear role expectations. With the target clarified, the next step is finding a cost-effective way to earn it, such as a healthcare administration degree you can earn online.

This matters because time and money are limited in a family budget. Picking a program tied to openings can make the payoff more predictable, especially when business and financial occupations are projected to grow faster than average. Think of it like meal planning for a busy week. You choose recipes that fit your schedule, then check ingredients, steps, and how everyone reacts. Do the same with a degree by confirming prerequisites, accreditation, schedule, and job outcomes.

Cut the Price Tag: Ways to Make School Affordable

If you’ve already narrowed down career-focused options, the next step is choosing the most affordable path to that credential. Use these tactics to lower tuition, limit borrowing, and keep your family budget steady.

1. Start with the cheapest “test run” credits: Take 1–2 general education courses first (like English, math, or intro business) before committing to a full program. This keeps your risk low if your schedule changes or the program isn’t the right fit. Ask the school if the credits apply directly to the credential you identified in your career plan.

2. Use community college as a stepping-stone: Community colleges often offer lower-cost prerequisites and career certificates that align with in-demand roles (including business, IT, and healthcare admin pathways). Meet with an advisor and request a written transfer plan that lists which courses will count toward a later bachelor’s degree. Tracking community college enrollment can also remind you that many adults choose this route specifically because it’s budget-friendly and practical.

3. Apply for “parent-specific” money before you borrow: Search for scholarships that are explicitly for moms, student parents, reentry students, adult learners, and military spouses if applicable. Prioritize applications that take 30–60 minutes and reuse materials (one resume, one short essay, one letter template). A strong strategy is to stack true mother-focused awards with other grants so you’re not relying on a single win.

4. Make financial aid offices do the matching for you: Fill out the FAFSA early, then book a 15-minute call with the financial aid office and ask two direct questions: “What grants am I eligible for as a student parent?” and “Is there child care assistance or an emergency fund?” Also ask whether part-time enrollment changes your aid, many parents assume it disqualifies them when it may not.

5. Choose online degree programs that reduce hidden costs: Tuition isn’t the only expense, commuting, parking, extra child care hours, and missed work time add up fast. Online degree programs can help you study during nap time or after bedtime, and the variety is large enough to compare options carefully because the global online degree programs market size reached USD 62.1 billion. Before enrolling, confirm total program cost, required in-person days, and whether fees are charged per term or per credit.

School, Parenting, and Work: Questions Parents Ask

Q: How many hours should I plan to study each week without burning out?
A: Start smaller than you think you need: 5 to 8 focused hours weekly for one class is often realistic. Protect two short “deep work” blocks and use lighter tasks during kid downtime. FlexJobs data showing 80% of the respondents rank work–life balance higher is a helpful reminder that sustainability matters more than speed.

Q: How can I set boundaries when school overlaps with a startup or side business?
A: Assign each a lane: certain days are for coursework deliverables, others are for business tasks that drive revenue. Put a hard stop time on both so family time stays protected. If you must overlap, pair a low-effort business task with a light study task, not two heavy ones.

Q: What should I do when childcare falls through or a kid gets sick?
A: Build a Plan B menu before you need it: one hour of readings, discussion posts, or flashcards you can do in small chunks. Email professors early with a realistic makeup date, not an apology. Keep a small “emergency buffer” in your schedule so one bad week does not derail the term.

Q: Can I get help when I’m overwhelmed without risking academic trouble?
A: Yes, but choose support that stays within your school’s rules, like tutoring, writing centers, study groups, or accessibility services if needed. Some parents also use academic support for structure, but always confirm what is allowed and keep your work your own.

Turn School Into Career Momentum Without Sacrificing Family Life

Wanting career progress while caring for kids can feel like choosing between educational goals and the daily realities of family life. The steady way forward is the mindset this guide emphasized: start small, plan realistically, and treat learning as a flexible tool for parent empowerment through learning, not a perfect sprint. With that approach, the feasibility of returning to school becomes clearer, and each class can support career advancement for parents while also delivering business startup education benefits over time.

Caring Causes - Turning Pointe Autism Foundation

Turning Pointe Autism Foundation (TPAF), a Naperville, Illinois–based nonprofit dedicated to empowering individuals with autism, is recognizing National Autism Awareness Month and National Autism Acceptance Month this April with the launch of its three-month "Flourish Together: Community. Support. Impact." campaign. The initiative features a series of community partnerships and local business activations designed to educate the public and support TPAF's programming.

The City of Naperville recently recognized April as Autism Awareness Month, with TPAF among the local organizations in attendance receiving a copy of the official proclamation.

TPAF supports children, adults, and families across the Chicagoland area through best-practice learning environments that promote independence while enhancing communication and social skills. Its programs include an Illinois State Board of Education–approved therapeutic day school serving students ages 5–22, as well as its Community, Recreation, Engagement, and Well-Being (CREW) Day Program and a range of supportive services.

"Awareness informs, but acceptance transforms," said TPAF Executive Director Carrie Provenzale. "The community partners who stand beside us make both possible. Because of them, our mission reaches further, our impact grows deeper, and every individual in the autism community moves closer to a world that embraces differences."

As part of the campaign, several Naperville-area businesses are supporting TPAF through the following initiatives:

• The Edge Music Academy will donate $30 to TPAF for every new student who signs up for monthly music lessons.
• Big Blue Swim School will host a month-long raffle in April for free swim lessons, with proceeds benefiting TPAF programming.
• KidSnips will donate $1 per haircut during weekdays throughout April at each of its seven Chicagoland locations.
• Test Drives for Autism Awareness is an initiative that local participating local car dealerships will donate $20 for every test drive throughout the month. In conjunction, The Flow Express Car Wash will offer 50% off any single wash or 15% off any monthly membership package with a test drive.
• The Westin Chicago Lombard will host an Autism Awareness pin sale, with proceeds benefiting TPAF.
• At Entourage and VAI's Italian Inspired Kitchen + Bar, patrons can order a specialty drink, with $1 from each purchase donated to TPAF. Guests will also receive a $20 dining coupon for either restaurant with a test drive at a Dan Wolf dealership.

In addition, TPAF is collaborating with students from Lewis University's Special Events class to host a fundraising event at 6 p.m. on Friday, April 24, at Rockstars Garage, 10127 S. Mandel Street in Plainfield. The event will raise awareness about autism while generating critical support for the nonprofit's life-changing programs. Tickets are $50, and guests will enjoy live entertainment, appetizers, and drinks, with all proceeds benefiting TPAF.

"We are deeply honored to be chosen this year as the charity partner for the Lewis University Rockstars Event," said TPAF Development Officer, Events & Partners, Julie Schmidt. "This collaboration exemplifies what true partnership looks like: planning an event with intention, investing in our community, and reminding us that acceptance isn't just something we talk about in classrooms, but is built through action. Professor Tracy Hemmingway and the students have poured their hearts and dedication into every detail, and we couldn't be more grateful. We are counting down to what is sure to be an incredible night!"

About Turning Pointe Autism Foundation
Turning Pointe Autism Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to raising the standard of educational, therapeutic, and social engagement supports for children, teens, and adults with autism. Its success is driven by strong partnerships with leading autism research experts, Illinois school districts, employment training partners, donors, and volunteers—all working together to build a thriving, inclusive future for individuals learning with autism.

For more information, visit turningpointeautismfoundation.org.

Book Nook - Nice Girls Don’t Get the Corner Office: Unconscious Mistakes Women Make that Sabotage Their Careers

Despite decades of progress, women are still navigating sometimes subtle and other times blatant barriers at work — and too often women tolerate those barriers, making them ingrained and self-reinforcing.

 

Internationally recognized executive coach and leadership expert Dr. Lois Frankel says that the current social and political climate makes it clear that “our work ensuring an even playing field isn’t done.”

 

“We’ve leaned in, we’ve girl bossed, we’ve untamed, and it’s still challenging to be a woman at work,” Frankel said. “If anything, we’re seeing a disturbing amount of stagnation, backsliding and backlash related to women’s rights and their rightful place in the world.” 

 

While overt discrimination may be less common than it once was, the modern workplace is riddled with microaggressions like mansplaining and gaslighting, as well as deeply conditioned behaviors that can derail careers. The barriers may be subtler today, but they’re no less costly. And now, Frankel says, she’s taken off the nice girl gloves and is calling out bias in what she describes as the “bro-ocracy.”

 

In the newly updated 3^rd edition of her bestselling business classic, Nice Girls Don’t Get the Corner Office, Frankel delivers a direct, unfiltered playbook for women who are ready to stop self-sabotaging and start getting the success they’ve earned and the respect they deserve.

 

Using relatable examples and self-assessment tools, Frankel empowers women with the same wisdom and guidance she has provided to Fortune 500 executives. She shows readers how to eliminate 100 career-limiting mistakes, such as:

 

• Buying Into Gaslighting
• Avoiding Office Politics
• Failing to Create a Memorable Brand
• Undervaluing Your Worth
• Letting Fear Eclipse Your Choices 

Written in a conversational tone short on unnecessary theory and long on actionable tips, Nice Girls Don’t Get the Corner Office addresses today’s cultural shifts that impact women at work — including the Me Too movement, gender fluidity, the shift to remote work, the dismantling of DEI programs and the erosion of women’s reproductive rights, to name a few — leaving women with clear guidance on identifying and overcoming today’s most pressing challenges.

 

“Nice is necessary, but not sufficient,” Frankel said. “You have the power to take control of your career without being controlling, to speak your mind while still being respectful, and to chase your ambitions without fear or shame.”

 

 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Dr. Lois Frankel is an executive coach, keynote speaker and bestselling author of the “nice girls” series, which includes Nice Girls Don’t Get the Corner Office, Nice Girls Don’t Get Rich, Nice Girls Don’t Speak Up or Stand Out and Nice Girls Just Don’t Get It. Her media appearances include Larry King Live, The Today Show, 20/20, Tavis Smiley, People magazine, Women’s World, The Wall Street Journal and USA Today. 

 

Frankel has worked with corporate giants around the globe, including Amgen, BP, Microsoft, the Walt Disney Company and the World Bank. She is the recipient of the Los Angeles County Commission on Women’s Woman of the Year Award and Maybelline New York’s Women Who Empower through Education Award. She has a Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology from the University of Southern California and received an honorary doctorate of humane letters from Phillips Graduate Institute.

 

For more information, please visit https://drloisfrankel.com/ or find the author on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/drloisfrankel/.

Going Green - Muck Boots

Just in time for muddy mornings and puddle-filled afternoons, Muck Boots is launching the Mini Muck Collection of easy-on, fully waterproof rain boots designed specifically for kids.

Built for everything from school drop-offs to backyard adventures, the Mini Muck makes it easier for little ones to get outside, no matter the weather. The lightweight design helps prevent heavy, clunky steps, while the slip-on style encourages independence with easy-on/easy-off pull on boots. 

Made with eco-conscious materials, the boots are lighter than traditional rubber styles and feature a slip-resistant sole for added stability on wet surfaces. Easy to clean and built to last, they’re a practical go-to for busy parents, as well as a fun essential for kids who don’t mind getting a little muddy.

Money Matters - Skyla Visa

With travel season kicking off and credit card debt still weighing on many wallets, Skyla Federal Credit Union has some massive credit card offers. 

 

Now through May 31^st, Skyla Visa credit cardholders earn 2x points on all travel purchases, making it a smart time to book that trip. But here's the twist: both the Visa Platinum and Visa Signature cards also offer 0% on balance transfers and 0% financing for 12 months, letting your audience move high-interest debt over while financing that vacation with same-as-cash financing. 

 

• Visa Platinum: 0% APR on balance transfers for 12 months. Built for consolidation. No annual fee.
• Visa Signature: 2x rewards on everything, 25K bonus points with $1K spend in 90 days, 0% APR intro for 12 months. No annual fee.
• 2x points on travel purchases: April & May only

 

Skyla (formerly Charlotte Metro Credit Union) is a fast-growing nationwide credit union that anyone can join thanks to a strategic partnership with the American Consumer Council (ACC).  

 

This rare combo of debt management and reward makes this a strong offer for anyone.

Smart Safety - Pool Gate Checklist

Drowning is the leading cause of accidental death in children ages 1 – 4 years, with an average of 11 fatal and 22 non-fatal drownings per day. Additionally, 70% of child drownings occur during non-swim times. Children's natural curiosity often leads them to backyard swimming pools, and most children that drown gain access to the pool through a faulty fence or gate. To help reduce the risk of child drowning the National Drowning Prevention Alliance (NDPA) has developed 5 layers of protection.

 

The first and most important layer is a barrier that limits access to the pool and an alarm to alert you if someone enters the pool area unexpectedly. Fencing provides a constant barrier, but the fence is only effective if the gate and gate hardware are in good working order. Checking the pool gate is crucial for drowning prevention, yet only 30% of pool owners do this once a year. To raise awareness of the issue and provide education on how to check and maintain a pool gate, D&D Technologies along with the NDPA established Check Your Pool Gate Month, starting on May 1st.

 

Check Your Pool Gate Month reminds pool owners to take one simple action that could save a child’s life – check the pool gate to ensure the pool fence, gate, latch, and hinges are secure and working properly, with the aim to reduce child drownings by making it harder for them to access the pool. For every child that drowns, another 7 experience a non-fatal drowning, and 40% of these children require further care. A few minutes is all it takes to check a pool fence and gate, because it’s not just a gate. It’s a lifesaver.

 

Safety Checklist for Pool Gates

• Gate should open outwards, away from the pool
• Gate latch release knob should be out of reach of children under 5. (check local codes/standards from minimum requirements)
• Fence should be at a minimum height to comply with your region and encompass the pool area. (check local codes/standards for minimum requirements)
• Maximum clearance from finished ground surface is no more than 4” (100mm)
• Fence perimeter must have adequate distance from other climbable objects or structures
• Gate must be self-closing and self-latching
• Gate hinges are reliable, self-closing, tension-adjustable, rust free and bind free
• Gate latch must be adjustable for height and width
• Gate latch cannot be key locked in the “open” position
• Gate latch cannot be opened using implements or force
• Gate will shut and latch securely from any position, including from resting on the latching mechanism
• Gate complies with all relevant United States Codes/Standards and legislation for pool safety

 

If new or replacement gate hardware is needed, install products proven over 35 years, the D&D MagnaLatch® safety latch and TruClose® safety gate hinge. The MagnaLatch® gate latch and TruClose® gate hinge, invented by D&D Technologies, meet all international and local pool safety codes and fulfill all the safety checklist’s requirements. The MagnaLatch® is a reliable, adjustable, and magnetically triggered self-latching safety gate latch. TruClose® are self-closing, adjustable polymer safety gate hinges.

 

The MagnaLatch® ALERT is D&D’s latest pool safety innovation, providing both audible and visual alarms if the gate is left open or not physically latched. Pool owners can see at a glance and hear from a distance if their pool gate is not latched properly.

 

Together, MagnaLatch and TruClose are the world’s most trusted pool safety hardware system, having been installed on gates for over 35 years and saving countless lives.

 

D&D is the exclusive gate hardware company to receive the NDPA’s Platinum Seal in the Pool Gates, Latches and Hinges category. The Commitment to Safer Waters (CSW) Seal Program is designed to identify and recognize companies and organizations that demonstrate a clear, measurable, and ongoing dedication to water safety and drowning prevention.

 

D&D Technologies gate hardware can be purchased on Amazon or at Home Depot or Lowes.  If you cannot fix it call your local contractor to service your gate and ensure the gate is secured while waiting.

 

You are encouraged to support the ‘Check Your Pool Gate Month’ campaign by following D&D’s social media platforms and sharing the posts.

 

Use the links below for more information on pool safety and compliance:

• National Check Your Pool Gate Month: https://us.ddtech.com/pages/national-check-your-pool-gate-month-consumer
• Pool Safety Compliance: https://us.ddtech.com/pages/pool-safety-compliance
• NDPA:  www.ndpa.org and https://ndpa.org/layers/

 

 

About D&D Technologies

D&D Technologies is the recognized leader in safety and high-performance gate hardware, providing the broadest range of gate hardware for every application. D&D Technologies produces over 400 gate hardware products and has over 35 years of experience in the gate hardware industry. Products include MagnaLatch® magnetic pool and safety gate latches, TruClose® adjustable, self-closing safety gate hinges, LokkLatch® gate latches, SureClose® and Shut It® industrial hinges. D&D’s diversity of products continually set new standards in design, performance, craftsmanship and innovation–tied together by a top level of quality and service. D&D products are rust free and consistently exceed all relevant safety barrier codes around the world for the residential, commercial and industrial markets.

Fun Freetime - Nickelodeon Extreme Tennis: Next!

Gameloft, a leader in the creation and publishing of games, today unveiled Nickelodeon Extreme Tennis: Next!, an arcade tennis experience developed by Old Skull Games for consoles and PC. The title launches on May 28^th, 2026, with pre-orders available now across all major platforms.

Inspired by the original mobile title, Nickelodeon Extreme Tennis: Next! is a fully reimagined experience designed for console and PC, delivering refined controls, enhanced gameplay depth, and a premium polish for a true arcade sports experience.

The Ultimate Couch Experience

At its core, the game celebrates shared play. Built for couch co-op , it lets players jump into quick, action-packed matches with family and friends. From fast-paced exhibition matches to chaotic arcade-style challenges, a variety of game modes keep the experience fresh and encourage friendly competition. With intuitive controls and pick-up-and-play mechanics, the game delivers instant fun for players of all ages and skill levels.

Your Favorite Nickelodeon Characters, Your Style

The game features a roster of 15 iconic Nickelodeon characters from past and present, including SpongeBob from SpongeBob SquarePants, CatDog from CatDog and Aang from Avatar: the Last Airbender, each brought to life with their own personality, unique abilities, and signature style. Players can also customize their favorite characters with a wide range of outfits and equipment, adding a fun layer of self-expression to every match.

Accessible and engaging, Nickelodeon Extreme Tennis: Next! captures the wild energy of arcade sports while staying true to Nickelodeon’s playful DNA, making it a perfect fit for families, kids, and nostalgic fans alike.

“Nickelodeon Extreme Tennis: Next! is a major step forward for the franchise and a great milestone in the expansion of our publishing activities,” said Guilherme Lachaut, Chief Sales Officer at Gameloft. “In close collaboration with Old Skull Games, we helped shape a richer version of the game for console and PC players worldwide, with more robust gameplay and a strong focus on playing together.”

“We wanted to create a game that’s instantly fun to pick up and exciting to play together,” added Camille Decressain, Producer at Old Skull Games. “Bringing these iconic Nickelodeon characters into a fast-paced, social experience allowed us to focus on what matters most—shared moments, friendly competition, and pure arcade fun.”

Game Details

• Title: Nickelodeon Extreme Tennis: Next!
• Developer: Old Skull Games
• Publisher: Gameloft
• Platforms: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, PC (Steam)
• Release Date: May 28, 2026
• Pre-orders: Available April 8, 2026
• Price: €29.99 / $29.99
• Genre: Arcade Sports / Party Game
• Rating: PEGI 3 / ESRB Everyone

 

Pre-orders for Nickelodeon Extreme Tennis: Next! are now live, giving players early access to the ultimate couch experience ahead of launch on May 28, 2026.

For more information please visit: http://www.gameloft.com/game/nickelodeon-extreme-tennis-next

 

About Gameloft      

Leader in the development and publishing of multiplatform games, Gameloft® has established itself as a pioneer in the industry, creating innovative gaming experiences for 25 years. Gameloft creates games for all digital platforms, from mobile to cross-platform titles for PC and consoles. Gameloft operates its own established franchises such as Asphalt®, Dragon Mania Legends, March of Empires, and Dungeon Hunter, and also partners with major rights holders including LEGO®, Universal, Illumination, Hasbro®, Fox Digital Entertainment, Lamborghini®, and Ferrari®. Gameloft distributes its games in over 100 countries and employs 3,000 people worldwide. Every month, 1 billion unique users can be reached by advertisers in Gameloft games with Gameloft for brands, a leading B2B offering dedicated to brands and agencies. Gameloft is a Vivendi company. 

 

About Old Skull Games

Old Skull Games creates games meant to be played together, with a focus on fun, easy-to-pick-up experiences that bring people closer and create great moments to share, often with characters and worlds players already know and love.

Money Matters - Shrinkflation Data

To quantify shrinkflation and price increases in the U.S., InvestorsObserver tracked the price and package size of America’s most popular grocery brands, including Frosted Flakes, Doritos, M&M’s, Coca-Cola, Campbell’s – across six years, from 2020 to 2026. 

 

Key findings your audiences should be aware of:

1. $741 – what the average family of four now pays extra per year for the exact same groceries.

2. Buying the same Coca-Cola mini cans costs 127% more per ounce than the 2L bottle.

3. 102% – the price-per-ounce increase on M&M’s since 2020, the only product in the analysis to fully double.

4. A box of Frosted Flakes now costs 51% more per serving than in 2020, and there are fewer servings inside.

The data also reveals a deliberate two-step strategy across multiple brands – raise the price first, shrink the package a year later, after consumers stop paying attention. Doritos, Frosted Flakes, and M&M’s did it. 

 

“No one is surprised by growing prices these days, but the issue with shrinkflation is the silence around it. You can clearly see when gas prices grow or rent rises – but in this case, you don’t notice when you start to overpay for less. It lands hardest on those who can afford the least,” said Sam Bourgi, senior analyst at InvestorsObserver.

 

Our full report is available here. Feel free to use any parts of it, I only ask to credit InvestorsObserver. 

 

Let me know if you want to interview Sam. He’s more than happy to share tailored insights in a live or recorded interview, or a written Q&A. Recent media: Reuters, 11Alive, Fox 5 DC (live), ABC30 Actions News, Bloomberg.

 

ABOUT SAM BOURGI

Sam Bourgi is a finance analyst and researcher at InvestorsObserver, bringing over 13 years of expertise in financial markets, economics, and monetary policy. His professional background spans the private, nonprofit, and public sectors, where he has held positions such as senior policy adviser, labor market analyst, and marketing director. Sam’s in-depth research and market analysis have been referenced by leading institutions and organizations, including the U.S. Congress, Department of Justice, Chicago Board Options Exchange, Bank for International Settlements, Boston University Law Review, Barron’s, and Forbes. Sam regularly appears on TV, including Fox 5 DC (live), CBN, KFYR TV, 11Alive, and ABC30, and is quoted by such media outlets as Reuters, Bloomberg, SF Chronicle and ZeroHedge. 

 

ABOUT INVESTORS OBSERVER

InvestorsObserver is a trusted source of independent financial analysis, market insights, and investment research for individuals and institutions. Founded to empower retail investors with actionable intelligence, InvestorsObserver delivers timely commentary, data-driven studies, and accessible financial tools designed to simplify complex market trends. Its research and insights have been featured by various media outlets, including Yahoo, The Guardian, Morning Star, Reuters, Nasdaq, and more.