Tips for a Single Mom
Being a single mom has got to be one of the hardest jobs in the world. Not only are you the soul provider but in many cases you are acting as both parents most or even all of the time. By following some of these tips you will find that although the job is hard it can be less stressful and much more enjoyable.
If you are the only one in charge then you must be organized. Start a schedule from the start of the day to bed time and stick with it. The first week or so might be hard but once your children and yourself are on a schedule you will find your day flows better.
Many times single mom’s find themselves doing the same small thing over and over through out the week or month. Avoiding that will save you time and money. Why do 1 load of laundry every day when you can do 3 or 4 loads one day a week and get it over with? Grocery shopping is one of these bulk projects. If you have the space take one day a month and shop for the whole month. Granted you will need to pick up milk and bread through out the month but that is a 5 minute stop compared to 1-2 hours every week.
Single mom’s need other mom’s and kids need other kids. When you join a play group or social group you will be giving your kids other kids to socialize with and you will have other mom’s to talk too. Just because your single doesn’t mean you can’t have a support system too.
Being a single mom you might find that you lose yourself behind your job and children. By taking time for yourself everyday you will be able to hold on to yourself while still being a provider for your children. Take 30 minutes after the kids are in bed to read a good book, take a bubble bath or just be alone. Let your body, mind and spirit revitalize.
The only saying “It’s about quality not quantity” rings true with all parents but single mom’s even more. Your children will not remember the amount of time you spent with them as much as they will remember the quality of the time spent. So spend an hour or even just 30 minutes everyday with your child just enjoying each other. Turn the phone off, avoid other distractions and spend time just having a good time. Your children will appreciate a fun filled, quality half hour/hour more than they would many hours of other things.
Many single parents hold on to a sort of guilt when their children only have one parent and they forget that they themselves need time away too. You need to find time though out the month to get away. Your not getting away from your children your just taking a small breathe. Ask for help, grandparents make great sitters once in a while. You can also hire a good sitter occasionally and this in no way makes you a bad parent.
Being a single parent can be hard and trying at times but you can do it and do it successfully. Finding a good support system is key but for some it is impossible. Believe in yourself, follow your heart and you will see that in the end every sacrifice you have ever made will be well worth it.
Popularity: 100% [?]