Tips For The Single Parent
In the past, American society was based on a nuclear family: a mother, father, and children. That kind of family is no longer common. Instead, you’re probably more likely to come across single parents: women and men raising children on their own. Sometimes even grandparents are the ones raising their children.
Being in a single-parent household after a divorce can be stressful for both the parent and the child. Single parents are often overwhelmed by the responsibilities that they are facing on their own, coupled with limited financial resources. On top of that, they face pressures that other families do not have.
Children have it hard because they don’t have both parents in the same household. Trying to have relationships with both parents can be difficult. Plus, they are often on the receiving end of their parents’ struggles.
Don’t let single parenting get you down. Learn more about the problems you’ll face and how you can overcome them.
Common Stressors for Single Parents
Single parents face a lot of problems that other parents don’t face such as:
- Custody and visitation issues
- Parents and children not able to spend as much time together
- Conflict between parents
- Changes in their child’s school performance
- Effects on their child’s peer relationships
- How the children feel about their parents dating and having new relationships
How to Set Yourself Up for Success
All single parents face challenges after divorce, but you can get past them. It’s all in the way that you tackle these issues. Here are some ways to parent successfully:
- Be positive. Have a positive attitude about divorce and parenting. You’ll feel better able to tackle challenges and your kids will feel more confident with their lives.
- Get rid of negative influences. In relation to the point above, stay positive and ignore family and friends who want to bring you down with their criticism and negativity.
- Parents should talk often with their children about their feelings. Quickly address any issues or needs they have. Good communication can help clear up misunderstandings and help children feel loved.
- Take time for yourself. Parenting on your own can be physically and emotionally draining, so take care of yourself. Relax in the bathtub. Spend time with friends. Engage in your favorite hobbies. Remember that you’re #1, so don’t neglect yourself.
- Seek professional help if needed. A divorce is a major event. Many people deal with a lot of emotions during this time. If you are having trouble coping, seek help from a therapist.
Seek Legal Help
Life after divorce is no easy undertaking, especially when there are children involved. Parenting is hard enough when there are two parents, so you can imagine that when it’s just you taking care of your child, the stress is sure to mount.
Fort Lauderdale divorce attorney Edward J. Jennings, P.A. can help you with life after divorce. Get the advice and resources you need to deal with your new life. Call 954-764-4330 or fill out the online form to schedule a consultation.
Resource:
apa.org/topics/parenting/single-parent
