Raising children is a challenging task for parents. Can you imagine having to raise children on your own? If you are doing so, then you already know the struggles of not having a co-parent to discuss discipline issues or academic concerns with. You probably know how difficult it can be at times to make certain issues on your own. If you are facing the task of raising your kids on your own, then these tips will surely help you manage your life more:
Build a strong support system.
Do you know the infamous saying, ‘It takes a village to raise a child’? Technically, that’s not true because you can do it alone, but you don’t have to. Your family, friends, and other people in your life care about you and your children. If they want to, let them become a source of support when you need it. Sharing your troubles lessens them; you should not do everything on your own.
Know how to ask for help.
This is probably one of the hardest things to do, especially when you have been on your own for quite some time. Sometimes, some single parents find it easier to keep on doing everything themselves instead of seeking others’ help. You must keep in mind that being vulnerable enough to ask for others’ help does not just give you the break you need, but it also helps you develop lasting, mutual friendships with people who need you in return.
Develop rules.
Raising children on your own requires you to play two roles – those of a father and a mother. Developing rules might make things easier for you. You should sit down with your kids and discuss a set of rules that you are all willing to stick with. Make sure to keep your rules simple and positive. Instead of saying, ‘Don’t be rude,’ say, ‘Be respectful.” Once you have established your ground rules with your kids, refer to them as often as you can to shape your kids’ behaviour and decision-making skills. Your goal is to guide them towards making their own positive choices.
Create routines.
Just like anyone’s daily life, having routines makes going about all tasks better. Creating a routine helps you save time and effort on a daily basis. If you have a routine, you allow yourself to do everything you need to do in a day – taking care of your kids, getting them ready for school, as well as finding time for your own physical, spiritual and emotional needs.
Build strong relationships with your children.
Your relationship with your children is one of the biggest influences on their behaviour and the choices they make. They want to connect with you and please you, so do what you can to keep a close and strong relationship with them. You don’t necessarily have to be their best friend, but you have to make an effort to nurture your relationships.
