Coping with single parenthood

Raising children is hard work for two parents. Raising children alone can be overwhelming. Nevertheless, experts say it’s possible to survive, even thrive, in a single parent family if the parent develops a plan for the family.

Here are some suggestions offered from the American Academy of Pediatrics:

Establish consistency. Schedule meals, chores and bedtime at the same time each day. Even more important, be consistent when it comes in discipline. Children need that consistency in order to develop properly.

Foster stability. Do what you can to minimize moves and changes in child care arrangements.

Don’t try to be both parents. Let’s face it, a person can’t be both parents, and it’s a mistake to try. Instead, single parents need to find other influences for the child—uncles, grandparents, athletic coaches and the like.

Don’t criticize your former spouse. Studies tell us that the number one factor in negative adjustments to divorce by kids is always a spouse who belittles the other spouse in front of the child.

Establish a good support system. Cultivate ties with your extended family, neighbors, friends or single-parenting groups.

Be honest. Children need to be told that one of their parents will no longer live with them, while being ensured that both parents still love them.

Seek help. If problems persist for more than a few weeks, talk to your doctor.