Successful 'Mompreneur' Shares Tips for Achieving Work-Life BalanceKumon Franchisee explains how her children inspired her to take the reins of her own career.

Approximately 4 million babies are born in the U.S. each year. Arguably one of the biggest milestones and transitions in life, parenthood often results in a shift in priorities. New routines, fewer date nights and less sleep are just a few changes parents experience after having a child. And the changes don't just occur in one's personal life. In fact,more than half of working-parentsfind it difficult to manage work-life balance and among working mothers, in particular, 41 percent report that being a parent has made it harder for them to advance their own career.

That's why some women decide to take the reins of their own career after experiencing challenges upon returning to the workforce. Whether they are tired of the typical cubicle grind or want to start over to follow a passion, there are many reasons why moms become entrepreneurs.

That being said, running a business while raising a family is no walk in the park. Despite the challenges, the number of female entrepreneurs who are moms continues to rise. Natania Blumenkehl, owner and operator ofKumon Math and Reading Center of Carroll Gardensin Brooklyn, N.Y., is part of that growing trend.

As a married mom of two children, Isaac, age 12, and Bayla, age 14, and a successful small business owner for seven years, Natania gives us expert advice on how tobalance motherhood and entrepreneurship.

Make the business about more than profits.The inspiration for opening a small business may be a better life for your family, but in some instances, your children themselves may inspire the business idea. My son was enrolled in a Kumon Math and Reading Center and I saw immediate benefits. I was tired of the normal 9 to 5 job and I quickly realized that I could achieve the dream of being a small business owner, while pursuing my passion for education, by opening aKumon franchise. For me, my business is about more than just profit.I truly enjoy what I do on a daily basis and I'm unlocking the potential of the children in my community.

Prioritize and organize.It's important to have a consistent schedule so you can stay organized. Between school drop-offs, extracurricular activities, and school events, you have a lot going on in your personal life. Add to that, the many hats you wear as a small business owner. Owning your own business is the American dream and gives you the opportunity to manage your own hours. Make sure you're making the most of your time by setting up a schedule for both yourself and your family. When you have a schedule of the things you need to do, it helps you prioritize your list, keep on task and stay focused.

Establish a support system.Whether your support team includes family members, other working moms or in my case, a franchisor, it's important to have a good support system in place. Don't feel like you have to go at it alone and make sure you ask for help when you need it. As a franchisor, Kumon has providedextensive training and tools to supportmy business goals. I often lean on other Kumon Instructors who are also mothers for advice and tips on how to improve my business. We are all small business owners and many of us are moms so it's a wonderful opportunity to not only network, but share advice with each other.

Manage work-life balance.One of the big reasons why many moms become entrepreneurs in the first place is to have flexible hours and better work-life balance. The best tip I have is to maintain that goal by creating boundaries. Setting boundaries for work and motherhood to be separate fosters efficiency in both. I try my best to give my kids undivided attention when I am home and when I'm at my Kumon Center, my entire focus is on work. Make sure to "leave work' when it's time to be with your family. Turn off your email and truly be present for your children. Keep perspective and remember, there will always be more work to do, but your kids are only young once.

For those with an entrepreneurial spirit and a passion for education, call 855.586.6687 orlearn more about the Kumon Franchisehere.