No one said this single parenting thing was going to be easy. Some days it’s the hardest thing I’ve ever done, other days I ‘m just grateful for the opportunity to raise my child the way I want. There are days, I’m sure married parent feel it too, when I have no idea what I’m doing or if I’m doing the right thing. I’ve tried to follow some basic “rules” to help my daughter and I through this transition.
*Have a good attitude- your children take their lead from you so your attitude affects theirs. As hard as it is sometimes I try to look at single parenting as something joyful and not something thrust upon me.
*I am the boss- that’s it, I make the decisions, not my child. I value her input but ultimately I’m the adult and I’m the one responsible for her so that makes me the boss.
*Ask for help- this is so important, sometimes life can be overwhelming, ask for help when you need it. Even your children can help ease some of the burden if you let them know the things you ask of them are not chores but simply a way to help their family.
*Have a stable home- children need security and stability. They need to know that things at home are the same, day after day, it may sound boring but kids like to know what they can expect.
*Be predictable- make sure you have routines and schedules that your children know about. Dinner at this time, baths at this time, no TV until homework is done. If the routines stay the same there will be less arguing.
*Take care of me- yes that sounds selfish but I find that I’m a better mother if I have a little me time. Sometimes all that means is curling up on the couch with a book, or soaking in a bubble bath, but it’s also always nice to go meet a friend for coffee or shopping, anything that is just for me.
There are so many other things you can do to ensure your life runs smoother but I find if I just remember these six things, life is easier.