It’s important to know before we start that life as a single parent isn’t “lesser” than when parents have a stable relationship. Sure, the parental duties are easier, and perhaps a child can benefit from having two parents in the home. But having one parent in the home, filled with love, care and commitment, is always going to be an overwhelmingly positive influence in a child’s life. Some of the best and most noble parents out there are single, taking on the responsibility themselves for the person they love most in the world.
However, it would be patronizing to suggest this doesn’t come with a few extra challenges. You may not have an additional pair of hands to pick up after your blind spots, or perhaps someone to talk to about all your challenges. As such, this “survival guide” in three simple tips wil help you feel more empowered in your duties, and capable past the platitudes.
Let’s begin:
Check For All Eligibilities
While there aren’t a huge amount of charities for single parents, you don’t have to carry the whole burden on your shoulders. In fact, there may be more you’re eligible to, like financial assistance or tax breaks depending on your situation, or access to local programs and resources like a free number of daycare hours per week. If you don’t check and ask, you don’t get, so never be too proud to use such provisions.
If you have a child with specific needs, you could look into autism services or other programs tailored to their condition. In line with that, there can be government grants or community aid that you didn’t even know about, which could entitle you to free medical equipment or counseling support sessions. Even if just one thing crops up, it can help.
Expand Your Parental Friends Network
You might feel isolated sometimes, since a lot of the support you would expect from a partner is gone (unfortunately, not even married couples can rely on this, so don’t feel left out). However, to patch this, you could find and connect with other single parents who understand what you are going through, perhaps at the school gates or local support clubs.
A simple search online or a visit to a local community center can put you in touch with a network of people who get it. They can be a great source of emotional support and practical advice, and you can share stories and tips and just feel heard. Perhaps friendships will develop and you can share co-parenting duties.
Use The Momentum Of Predictable Routine
Life as a single parent can feel unpredictable, so having a routine you can count on is a powerful tool for sustaining your days with some kind of uniformity. Setting up a consistent schedule for rote plans like dinner time, bath time, and bed time helps your child adapt to the new normal.
When a child knows what is coming next, they feel more secure and they are less likely to act out. This predictability also creates a kind of momentum for you that can carry you through the day and may even provide some rest periods for you to catch a nap or read. It helps you stay organized and can give you a feeling of control during a time when so much feels out of your hands.
With this advice, we hope you can feel empowered as a single parent, or uncover that you were empowered all along.
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