Sole Parenting – Tips For Raising Terrific Kids

Sole parenting has increased markedly over the last 20 years and now represents a significant percentage of families worldwide. While the parents themselves come from many different backgrounds and circumstances, the difficulties that they face as a whole are similar. Trying to perform dual parenting roles, lack of time and financial difficulties are just a few of the issues that come with sole parenting. But sole parents raise terrific kids too. Here are a few ideas for making sole parenting a win-win for all.

• Children need exposure to a wide variety of adult role models. Grandparents, teachers and adult friends can help fill this void left by the absent parent.
• Try to establish a support network of friends and family to help share the load and to provide you with some spare time to recharge your energy levels.
• Stay in contact with the community. When sole parenting, it is easy to feel isolated from the outside world so attend school and community events when you can.
• When children arrive home from an access visit they often bring with them feelings of unease and divided loyalties. They often take time to adapt to a new set of rules and expectations and may need your patience and understanding.
• Avoid the trap of competing with the other parent for the child’s love with special gifts, outings or activities. Feeling jealous because of what the other parent can provide materially is normal but not helpful. Be confident in the way you parent your child and the way that you show your love on a daily basis.
• Encourage children from sole parenting families to keep in regular contact with the other parent. They should feel ok about sharing good news or discussing problems with the non-custodial parent knowing that they have your full support in doing so.

It’s true that sole parenting is a difficult task even at the best of times. But with the right support and a positive mindset it can still produce the most wonderful kids.