Despite the advantages of finishing school, teen moms face serious obstacles. Several factors make it more difficult for teen moms to finish school:
Feeling embarrassed or awkward at school, especially if students or adults at school make the teen feel out of place.
Health concerns for themselves or their children. New moms may suffer from a difficult recovery after pregnancy or have postpartum depression, and new babies may have health problems that make it hard for a teen mom to focus on school.
Finding daycare or childcare. A teen mom needs someone to care for her child during school and when she needs to work on homework, but not all teens have someone who can watch their children.
Safety fears. The crowds, fighting, and other problems at some schools may make it more intimidating for a pregnant teen or teen mom to go back to school.
Lack of support. Teens need support to finish school as a mom, from the school system, family, peers, and/or teachers. Without some kind of adult support it is very difficult for a teen mom to succeed at school.
The need to work. Some teen moms need to work to support themselves and their babies, which may interfere with school work.
Not knowing her options. Though most states and school districts have programs to help teen moms, the teen may not be aware of these opportunities.
Being behind in school. Teen moms are often already behind in school after pregnancy and childbirth, and they may feel overwhelmed in trying to finish.
It's important for teen moms to realize that finishing school is the best thing for themselves and their children. Finishing school builds self confidence and self respect and opens up opportunities later in life. Though finishing school as a mom may seem overwhelming, teen moms do have some options available to them. Not every option is offered in every school district, but if a teen mom can find a knowledgeable adult like a teacher or school counselor to help her, she can learn which options are available and best meet her needs: