Strategies for Single Parents
Most single parents today find themselves occasionally overwhelmed. It's a real, everyday challenge to juggle the tasks and responsibilities of two people. As a single parent, the best way for you to deal with the ever-increasing demands of parenting, working, and taking care of yourself is to concentrate on staying organized. And there's no need to feel that the weight of the world is on your shoulders, because you are not alone. Support is out there from many sources.
Here are some strategies and simple suggestions for single parents:
- If you're newly single, eliminate unnecessary chores, errands, and extracurricular activities until you can establish a schedule that works for both you and your children.
- Take a good look at your daily and weekly must-do's. Make lists, draw charts, and let your children help you by performing simple tasks and taking on appropriate responsibilities.
- Recruit help from family and friends. Whether it's a shoulder to cry on, someplace safe to vent, or hands-on help when the going gets tough, reach out to those around you.
- Don't avoid dual-parent families. Although in some circumstances it may feel awkward, getting to know other families can really make a difference when trying to build a network of support.
- Remember to put effort into keeping your relationships strong and healthy. It will come back to benefit you and your children.
- Take time for yourself without the children. It's to everyone's advantage if you let yourself be a priority once in awhile.
- Make sure you eat right and find time to exercise.
- Join a group of other single parents to begin networking, and investigate community or work-related support groups.
- Find activities in your area which you and your children will both enjoy. Many organizations not specifically focused on children are still kid-friendly, and can provide an opportunity for adults with common interests to meet each other.
- It's best to keep your children away from your dating life until someone serious comes along.
- If divorced, remember to speak kindly (or at least neutrally) about your ex-spouse in front of the children.
- Don't deny the reality that you are a single parent. Whatever your circumstances, deal with the emotions attached to it. Only then can you begin to help your children with what they're going through.
- Talk with your children often. Know that if the situation is a new one, they will undoubtedly experience sadness, have behavior problems, and perhaps difficulties in school.
- Look into counseling if you seem to be struggling and having a hard time in your situation.
- Do research and find out about getting some good financial advice. Don't wait to plan for your future.
- Don't forget about your sense of humor, and have fun! If you are single because of a recent transition, a new life full of new possibilities is just starting.
Workplace Options. (Reviewed 2018). Strategies for single parents. Raleigh, NC: Author.
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