Those who parent without a partner often wear many hats. Many of the same challenges may arise in any two-parent household but without the support of another adult to share the responsibility of the day-to-day situations.  Hopefully, we can encourage a single parent with tips and resources to make the journey a success!  As a committed parent, one can make a world of difference in a child’s life.

Many children in a single-parent household grow up especially close to the parent who nurtures, disciplines, and provides for them. Oftentimes, these children will benefit from taking on a more mature role at an earlier age, assuming family responsibilities. Healthy single parents often become resilient individuals who help children become confident and empowered future adults. 

Did you know there are physical benefits to having a baby:

• Lower breast cancer risk, especially under 30
• Lower uterine cancer risk
• Lower risk of death from all causes including natural, accidents, suicide, and homicide
• Healthy habits formed
• Additionally, breastfeeding reduces the risk of: (Type 2 diabetes, breast cancer, Ovarian cancer, postpartum depression)

It is a big job and we have some tips to build your care for yourself if you choose to single parent:

1. Take care of “you” by placing value on yourself.  This can look like a healthy lifestyle – by choosing healthy foods and snacks, finding time to exercise and, REST!  When baby sleeps, you sleep!  When you take care of yourself, you are better able to care for your growing child. 
2. Respect the other parent if they are in the picture.  Children grow up secure when they see their parents as a team.  If you choose to co-parent your child, appreciate this person, and make mention of positive qualities.  This builds a safe and trusting relationship for your child. 
3. Plan fun activities: a blanket in the park or at the beach, visit the library for free resources, keep your eye on community events, anything you can do with a stroller can be a good way to get out for free. 
4. Apologize and …Forgive.  When you mess up (and we all do), be quick to tell your child you were wrong,  Show them you understand how words and actions can hurt them.  They will respect you more when you are willing to set the correct example.  By modeling this behavior you may be rewarded with the same behavior!  And when they do apologize, remember to say, “I forgive you.”  Discuss how they can behave differently the next time and encourage them to be brave enough to say, “I’m Sorry.”
5. Find your support system.  Build relationships with other healthy parents and children that you can go to the market, have coffee with, or just put down toys in the living room.  If you are partnering without a partner, look for a good male role model to spend time with your child doing activities they enjoy.  You can’t be everything to your child so go easy on yourself and as the song says, “Let it go”!

At Pregnancy Resource Center Medical Clinic we offer parenting classes and mentorship opportunities support during your pregnancy through our Parenting Coaches who are there for you,  We also provide resources within our community to help you and your child flourish.  You CAN be a successful single parent and we are here to help!