Problems Faced by Single Parents & Their Solutions

Money

• Many single parents bear more financial burdens than do two-parent households with dual incomes. Child support often helps relieve some of the stress of additional costs but oftentimes is not enough to cover the extra costs of raising a child alone, or is simply unavailable. Bargain shopping and using coupons can reduce the costs of food and clothing. Occasionally, it is possible for a single parent to take on a second job or freelance from home. Having a budget and living within means are especially important for a single parent.

Time

• Having to transport children to school, sport practice or doctor appointments can leave little time for anything else. Discipline, organization and structure can help make things flow more smoothly. Personal time can also suffer when single parenting. Finding time to exercise, read or even grocery shop can be difficult. Networking with other parents and creating babysitting cooperatives may give you more free time. Get up early to exercise or do a few chores. Be strict with bedtimes for smaller children, so you will have some free time once they are asleep. Have children help do chores and encourage their timeliness.

Role Models

• Many studies have emphasized the importance of both same- and opposite-gender parent-child interactions. An analysis of opposite-sex parent relationships by G.L. Forward and colleagues, published in "The Journal of Communication and Religion" in 2008, reported that a parent of the opposite gender is important in making a child feel validated and encouraged with respect to dependency, openness and assurance. This interaction was as important for fathers and daughters as for mothers and sons. Because single parents cannot offer the balance of both male and female role models, it becomes important for children of single parents to connect and interact regularly with family members and friends who can fill this role.

Self-Care

• Single parenting often involves more sacrifices than are required from dual parents. For instance, single parenting may leave little time for socializing. However, being with friends and peers can provide an important break from children. Hiring babysitters or having friends occasionally sit with the children is a way to occasionally have free time. Whether going out to a bar or sitting in a coffee shop with a good book, time away from the children is an important mental break from single parenthood. It is also critical for single parents to accept help when it's offered.