How to Cope Being a Single Dad

Over 20 million children live in a single-parent family, according to GirlsHealth.Gov. For a man who is used to being the secondary caregiver, the transition to single fatherhood is often less than smooth. The stress of bringing up children and running a home is difficult and many support networks seem geared toward single mothers. Whether you are a single dad because of divorce, death or abandonment, when reality hits, you may begin wondering how you are going to cope as a single dad.

Instructions

    • 1

      Set a well-structured routine. Single parents often feel they do not have enough hours in the day; you need to budget the ones you have wisely. If you work, organize picking up and dropping off the children from school or caregivers. Children like routine, knowing exactly what is going to happen and when.

    • 2

      Establish basic house rules and ensure everyone sticks to them. Their mother leaving will have affected your children, and their reaction to this can influence their behavior. It is vital you instill discipline in order to assert your authority as their father and head of the house. Stay firm when disciplining them; let them know you mean business and never back down once you have made a decision.

    • 3

      Make time to spend together as a family unit. Working single fathers may find free time a little scarce, so use the time you have together wisely. Make sure you eat at least one meal a day together, so you can catch up on each other's news. Family time together does not have to cost anything; go to the park, play a board game or cook a meal together. Time together will increase family bonds and give your children some stability and security.

    • 4

      Find a female role model for your children. Ask a family member or close family friend if they will take the role. Children will benefit from solid role models of both genders, according to FamilyDoctor.Org. A female role model could prove vital for single fathers who are worried about tackling female health topics with their daughters.

    • 5

      Make time for yourself each day, even if it's just 15 minutes time out. Single parents who do not allow themselves some time to rest risk suffering from depression, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. You are also more likely to get angry and lose your patience, resulting in you taking it out on the children. When you can, leave your children with someone you trust and go out and do something for yourself. This could be a visit to the gym or going to a coffee shop; how you spend your time does not matter as long as you get time out of the house by yourself.

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