Single parenting is truly one of the most difficult roles to settle into but it can also be one of the most rewarding. I have been a single parent of five children for eight years. There are plenty of books written on the subject but nothing can substitute for real life experience. Is there a secret to making single parenting easier? Not really. It’s always a work in progress but there is one word that comes to mind when I reflect on the often rocky road I have traveled over the past eight years: consistency.
Children thrive on consistency
When you are filling the role of both parents it is even more important. Even though your emotions may be all over the place when you first start your journey, remember that your children are in a whole new world as well. Establish a routine that includes “down time” for you (yes, you will figure out how to do that!) and plenty of time just enjoying your children without worrying about housework is SO important.
When you are a single parent it seems like there are even fewer hours in the day. A schedule is essential and planning ahead is a must. If this means spending Sunday in the kitchen with your children preparing some meals for the week ahead, then do it! It’s great to involve your children in household duties even if they are small. They love to help and feel important. It also helps to make the “chores” a bit more do-able.
As a single Mom the best time with my children is always dinner time. We always eat together and typically at the same time every night. This isn’t always possible with work schedules, but even if you can only do that a few times a week, it is important. My children get my full attention during dinner and we choose a topic of the night. This makes everyone want to stay at the table and enjoy each other. Sounds a little over-glorified perhaps, but it is one of my favorite times of the day, tired or not.
Single parenting is absolutely stressful but finding what works best to make it an easier time for you and your children is essential. Just find a routine and stick with it. Your children will know what to expect from you and if you enlist their help, they will grow up to be self-sufficient adults. I know this first-hand: my two oldest daughters are 24 and 22. They both are successful young women with their own homes.
Consistency pays off…and give you more time to spend enjoying your children.
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