Raised By A Single Parent Essay

Many single parents treasure their newfound autonomy and independence and feel hopeful about the future.Establish firm, clear boundaries that leave no doubt that you are the boss In the home.

A stressed out parent results in stressed out kids.

Develop a wide network of people who can provide you with emotional support, companionship, help in emergencies, child- care, reality checks, etc.

Whether the single parent household is headed by a mother, father, or a grandparent, raising children alone is an enormous task. Because the statistics tell us that most of us will live in, know of or be involved with a single parent family at some point.

Since 1970, the number of children living in a single parent family has doubled.

Learn to say, "I love you enough to say NO to you.1' (My kids hate that one).

The single parent frequently feels overwhelmed by the responsibility, tasks, and emotional overload associated with raising children alone.Learn relaxation, yoga, meditation, visualization, or whatever healthy coping skill allows you to relieve stress and tension.Take a walk, read a book, call a friend, take a nap (my personal favorite).Of course, we must not be rigid and inflexible, because children need to learn that life is not always predictable. It is critical for your children's well being for you to take care of yourself.There are times when you feel like you need a break.Remind children that you are a team and have to work together. You may have to wait until your kids are grown before you get any credit from them. Nurturing is a high priority, but children also crave stability and security.While this Is important for all children, it Is especially crucial for children who have suffered 8 loss of stability due to divorce or death of a parent."Broken home." This is a derogatory label that causes much pain and misunderstanding.Too often, children living in single parent households have to contend with negative stereotypes and hurtful remarks made by Insensitive adults.In fact, statistics from 1992 indicate that single parent families represent 30% of U. households, while 25% represent two parent households.Based on current trends, there are predictions that upwards of 70% of children born since 1980 will spend some time living in a single parent home before their 18th birthday. The following strategies are offered to the single parent who is determined to raise a good kid despite the myths of doom and gloom.