About this topic
Raising kids is challenging. It is even harder when you are doing it by yourself. While being a single parent is a lot of work, it also has a lot of rewards along the way. Learning how to be a good parent to your children can be very demanding. Here are some tips to help you succeed. ‚
General
Single parent families have some struggles that 2 parent families may not have. You may not have a lot of support from others. You may have to work, deal with daycare or school and do all of the discipline by yourself. You may be trying to be a positive role model for your child as well as provide for them financially. Balancing all of these roles can be stressful. Here are some tips to help you succeed. ‚
Have a plan. ‚
- Make a routine. This will make life easier for both you and your child. Keep to regular bedtimes and mealtimes. Have family rules and talk about them with your children.
- Have childcare you can depend on. Make sure the person you trust to watch your child knows how to keep them safe. Try not to use older children or people you have just met. Consider what your back-up plan is in case your sitter is busy or not available.
- Have a plan to take care of yourself. Take a few minutes each day to exercise. Eat a healthy diet. Try to get 7 to 8 hours of sleep each night. Take time to do something you enjoy.
Handle emotions. ‚
- Even though you may not have wanted to be a single parent, it can still be a good life. Try to be positive.
- Remember your child needs your love more than anything. Show love to your child by spending time with them. It does not have to cost a lot of money to read, play, or do activities together.
- Give up on guilt. Be gentle with yourself and understanding of your child.
- If you have personal problems, talk with friends or a counselor. Continue to do the parenting jobs such as cooking, cleaning, or giving advice.
- Your child may act younger for a while and this is normal. Your child may also benefit from seeing a counselor.
Build up a network of support. ‚
- Work out a carpool schedule with others for childcare or activities. Ask family and friends who you trust for help.
- Seek company of other parents, both married and single. Go to story time at the library. Involve your child in organized sports. Join a play group. Find a support group for single parents. Consider going to church or some other activity you can do with your child. Get involved in activities in your community.
- Be prepared for emergencies. Find someone who will agree to help you if you become sick or overwhelmed.
Helpful tips
Be kind to yourself. Being a single parent is hard. ‚
- You will likely feel overwhelmed at some time. Dont try to be a super parent. Instead, focus on making sure your children feel loved, safe, and secure. A little dust or a few toys out will not matter over time. Choose your battles.
- Remember, you are doing the very best you can for your child. Other single parents are too. Support one another.
- If your child's other parent is involved, tension is likely at some point. Do your best to communicate with the other parent. You may need to discuss and change your schedule or do some extra driving. Think of what is best for your child.
Where can I learn more?
American Academy of Family Physicians ‚
http://familydoctor.org/familydoctor/en/kids/parenting/being-a-single-parent.printerview.html ‚
American Academy of Pediatrics ‚
http://www.healthychildren.org/English/family-life/family-dynamics/types-of-families/Pages/The-Challenges-of-Single-Parenthood.aspx ‚
American Psychological Association ‚
http://www.apa.org/helpcenter/single-parent.aspx ‚
Last Reviewed Date
2015-04-29 ‚
List_set bdysylist
- Adult
- Healthy Living
- Mental Health
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care provider 's advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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Copyright ‚ © 2016 Wolters Kluwer Clinical Drug Information, Inc. and its affiliates and/or licensors. All rights reserved. ‚