According to Wikipedia, there were 12.9 single parent families in the United States in 2006. 10.4 million single-mother families and 2.5 million single-father families. Data is from the 2006 Current Population Survey’s (CPS) Annual Social and Economic Supplement (ASEC), conducted in February, March and April at about 100,000 addresses nationwide.
Single parents are at a higher risk for poverty, and single mothers supposedly have poorer health than a mother with a husband. This is most definitely attributed to the single income for the mother to provide for her children. Typically child support is non-existant or comes in very sporadically, aiding to the family’s income troubles.
Single parenting takes strength, resilience, values, and consistency. It is a hard road but it can be accomplished. Boys especially need you to be strong as well as consistent, as they will test you as they start to enter puberty. Finding a Big Brother for your son is a good idea.
I have a 12 year old son who will be 13 in July. It seems like he is constantly testing me! His mouth is getting very bad, and his attitude is just poor all around. I’ve got a long road ahead of me, but I’m a strong woman and can handle it! I seek out information and resources often to keep learning how to be a better parent.
Focus Adolescent Services says you can be a successful parent by doing or having the following:
- optimistic attitudes about themselves and the future
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people to turn to for support and in times of emergencies
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open channels of communication
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time to relax
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agreeable, supportive relationships with family and former partner
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firm rules and standards for their children
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financial or job security
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friendly neighbors and caring teachers
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reliable child care
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knowledge about where to go for help
There are many resources on the internet for tips, connecting with other single parents through online communities, and resources to find offline groups.
Here are some online resources I’ve found:
- Single Parenting Advice
- Making Lemonade: The Single Parent Network
- Big Brothers & Sisters of America
Even a Dating Site for Single Parents:
I currently am not dating, but that’s a personal preference for everyone. Before you start dating you need to be sure that you and your children are ready for this. It’s not easy for children to have someone new come into the picture, especially if it’s not “Mom” or “Dad”. Be sure to always put your children first and never choose someone who does not get along with your children.
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Single motherhood can certainly be a challenge but there are silver linings if you search for them. Having a good support system is essential and taking care of yourself is paramount.
Another good resource for single moms is Rich Single Momma. It’s a blog that encourages and empowers single moms to succeed and live a full and rich life. http://richsinglemomma.com.
Samantha’s last blog post..Operation Nurture Mommy: Free and Low Cost Ways to Take Care of Myself without Breaking the Bank
It is never easy to be a single parent. I am also a single parent having a 7 year daughter.
I’m Jennifer Broadley and I would like to share some dynamic information and support on how to be a winning single parent with strong, respectful relationships with your children and a comfortable, working relationship with your ex-partner.