Surviving a coding bootcamp as a parent comes with its own set of challenges and demands. Juggling coding assignments and parental duties can feel overwhelming, but with the right strategies and mindset, it's possible to find a harmonious balance. Let's embark on a rollercoaster ride of tips and tricks to not just survive, but thrive in a coding bootcamp as a parent.

Unleashing the Power of Boundaries

As a parent, it's easy to feel the pressure to be constantly available and productive. However, setting clear boundaries is essential for maintaining your well-being and achieving success in your coding journey. At the beginning of my experience in a bootcamp, I struggled to know when to "turn off". I finally decided to designate a specific "shut off" time each day (for me it was 8 p.m.), when any unfinished tasks - coding or otherwise - could wait until tomorrow. By prioritizing rest and self-care, you'll be able to approach your coding work with a refreshed mind and greater focus.

Juggling Like a Pro: Which Balls Are Made of Plastic?

Parenting requires adept juggling skills, but not all tasks carry the same weight. From the wise words of Nora Roberts: "The key to juggling is to know that some of the balls you have in the air are made of plastic and some are made of glass."

Identify your glass balls – mental health, sleep, and quality time with loved ones – and handle them with utmost care. As for the plastic ones – like a spotless house or perfectly folded laundry – it's okay to let them bounce around for a bit. Remember, you can't do it all, all the time. Embrace the art of selective juggling!

Goal-Getter Mode: Cracking the Code of Realistic Expectations

One of the things I did before starting on this journey was to sit down and flesh out my goals. I tend to lean heavily on perfectionism, and this certainly wasn't the place for it. Sure, completing the coding bootcamp was the main goal. But let's be real--- parenting adds an extra level of challenge to your schedule. You may have less time compared to your peers, but that doesn't mean you can't succeed. Embrace the fact that you might not know it all 100% of the time, and that's perfectly okay! Focus on learning the essential concepts and skills that align with your dream career. Progress, no matter how small, is still progress.

Finding Your Focus Zone:

Multitasking – every parent's secret power. But when it comes to coding, sometimes you need to switch gears and embrace uninterrupted focus. My secret sauce was to find a time that worked with my schedule for heads-down coding time. For me, this was around 5 a.m. before the tiny human would wake, and no other responsibilities would call my name. This ended up being win-win, because I often would have a bit of free time later in the day for other tasks or spending time with loved ones.

Embrace the Circus Act: Give Yourself Some Grace - and a Standing Ovation

Cue the confetti cannons and applause! As you juggle coding and parenting, remember to shower yourself with heaps of self-compassion. There will be moments when the weight of it all feels overwhelming, and that's when you need to take a breath and give yourself a pat on the back. It's completely normal to feel tired, anxious, or unsure. Remember, you're taking on two extraordinary challenges at once. Embrace the motto of one day at a time, celebrate every small victory, and always believe in your capabilities!