BEING AN EFFECTIVE SINGLE PARENT

•Develop a support network. Connect with family and friends who can help out when you need them. Join a single parent support group, in person or online.

•Make time for yourself. Plan opportunities to recharge your energy every now and then.

•Be Civil. With separation or divorce, show respect for your child’s other parent. Encourage your child to have a healthy, positive relationship with his/her other parent.

•Daily Routines. Develop and maintain daily routines for yourself and your child to minimize chaos & stress.

•No perfection. Accept that you don’t have to be a perfect parent. No parent is perfect. Just try your best.

•Share Responsibilities. Give your child household responsibilities that are appropriate for his/her age.

•Set Boundaries. Remember that your child cannot take on the responsibilities of the absent parent.

•Express Love. Let your child know you love him/her and that you are always available to discuss anything.

•Appreciate Yourself. Focus on the times you’ve felt successful and competent as a parent.

• Keep Positive. Having a positive outlook about your situation will help your child be positive about it, too.

• Find New Love. Your experiences are lessons learned. When emotionally ready, purse new love.