How to Survive the Holidays as a Study Mom

It’s the third week of December. My house is covered in wrapping paper scraps, the kids are bouncing off the walls thanks to holiday sugar highs, and my coursework? Let’s just say my textbooks are currently serving as coasters.

Sound familiar?

If you’re a study mom like me, this time of year feels like a circus, one where you’re both the performer and the clean-up crew. But here’s the thing: We can still make progress without losing our sanity. To help, I’m sharing 3 survival strategies I’m using this week plus a free printable to keep you on track.

1. The “Study-Treat” System (aka Bribing Myself)

Let’s be real, I need motivation, especially during December when Netflix holiday movies are calling my name. So, I’m bribing myself:

• Study 20 minutes → Reward: One cookie (yes, I hide the good ones from the kids).

• Finish a page of notes → Reward: A latte or a few scrolls of TikTok.

Pro Tip: Use the printable “Holiday Study Tracker” to keep things simple. Write down your goal for the week, no matter how small, and reward yourself when you hit it.

2. Embrace the “Messy Study Time”

I used to think I needed a perfectly quiet hour to study. That doesn’t exist in December (or mom life, really). Now, I take what I can get:

• 5 minutes while waiting for the cookies to bake.

• 10 minutes of reading while the kids color.

• Reviewing notes during my toddler’s tenth rewatch of Ms. Rachel’s video.

Use the Tracker: Write down even your tiny accomplishments like “Reviewed 2 pages” or “Did flashcards for 10 minutes.” Progress adds up, and seeing it on paper keeps you motivated.

3. Involve the Kids (It’s Surprisingly Effective)

Here’s my holiday secret: I let my kids think my studies are their job too.

I give my little guy “tasks” like counting how many pens I have or organizing my sticky notes.

For my older daughter, I tell her she’s my “study supervisor” (she LOVES this) and have her quiz me with flashcards.

It keeps them busy, makes me feel less guilty, and sneaks in study time without tantrums.

Bonus Tip: When they “help,” give them a big high-five. Kids love being part of the action.

Grab Your Free Printable

To make it easier, I’ve created a Holiday Study Tracker for you! Use it to:

• Set study goals.

• Track your progress.

• Celebrate your wins (yes, even tiny ones count!).

📥 Download it here: Holiday Study Tracker

Conclusion: Real Moms, Real Progress

The truth is, studying during the holidays is hard. But you’re showing up for yourself and your goals, and that’s something to celebrate. Whether you study for 5 minutes or 50, progress is progress.

So, grab your printable, set one small goal, and remember: You’re not alone in this.

P.S. What’s your holiday survival strategy? Drop it in the comments—I’d love to feature your tips in a future post. Let’s get through this holiday season together, one chapter (and one cookie) at a time.

Warmly,
Ikimemo
Your fellow study mom