1. Help Clients Create Realistic Schedules
Most clients struggle to balance school and work as adults. The first step for a case manager is to show them how it can all fit in.
Start by suggesting a few basic options for scheduling. Some will prefer to use a physical calendar or planner. Others adapt better to a scheduling app or their phone’s built-in calendar.
Ask them to fill in their scheduled commitments, including work hours. Then, have them make a list of other obligations, including studying and coursework. Show them how to prioritize tasks based on their urgency and importance. Then, work with them to create time blocks within their schedule.
2. Encourage Communication With Employers and Family
Remind clients they don’t have to do it alone. They’ll need the support of family, friends and even employers to incorporate school into their busy schedules.
Encourage them to discuss flexible scheduling at work. They may be surprised at how supportive employers can be when it comes to career development. Even if they’re not able to move their schedule around, the flexible online training programs at MedCerts allow learners to progress through their programs during times and days that make the most sense for them.
If they live with others, coach them on how to set boundaries around study time. When they’re studying, they’re busy.
3. Connect Clients to Support Services
Clients may not realize how many support options are out there. Use your resources to create a list of services they may qualify for. Transportation assistance and childcare can be invaluable for adult students. When you work with MedCerts Partner Solutions to find a career training program that matches your clients’ goals, you’ll be offering them a commute-free option. MedCerts programs are 100% online, so your clients won’t need to worry about organizing transportation or finding time for a commute. Additionally, MedCerts provides students with laptops for the duration of their program if needed, which is one less barrier for your client to start training for a better career.
Their academic program should also have student support available. MedCerts students work with a team of Student Success Advisors and can access career services that complement case manager efforts.
4. Promote Well-Being Strategies
When adults add school to an already busy schedule, self-care can fall by the wayside. Remind clients that their mental and physical health matters, as they can’t succeed if they’re exhausted.
Help them incorporate sleep, physical activity and downtime into their schedules. Discuss stress management and how to cut back on commitments when things become overwhelming.
If they need help reducing stress levels, point them to mindfulness and self-care resources, such as meditation videos and mental health tracking apps. Remind them that it’s okay to say no when they feel stretched too thin.
5. Highlight Flexible Learning Options
Many adults associate education with rigid high school and college schedules. Remind them that there are other options, including evening classes and online learning programs. Show that programs like MedCerts will allow them to study, complete assignments and progress through their program when it’s convenient for them.
Learning to study independently can be challenging, but they have you to help them through it. Suggest creating a dedicated study space that’s private and free of distractions, and use that space whenever they do schoolwork.
Preparing Clients for Long-Term Success
Finally, set them up for success with an adaptive mindset. Remind them that their commitments and needs will change, and that they can adjust their study schedule accordingly.
With these tools and your support, clients can stay balanced and achieve long-term success.
