Divorce Single Parents

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In 1922, a survey was made that concluded that 30 percent of the US households were single parent families. In the past, it was predicted that from 1980 onwards, at least 70 percent of the children would spend some duration residing in single parent houses, before they celebrate their 18^th birthday. It should not be feared that these children would lead miserable lives. The divorce single parents should adopt the following mode of behavior while bringing up their children to overcome the myths of gloom and doom.

Strategies of Divorce Single Parents

Family Meetings

The single parents should schedule meetings in which children can contribute their ideas. The parent must learn how to communicate efficiently and resolve the problems while simultaneously maintaining his/her position as a boss. During the meetings, the members should set realistic goals for the family.

Mistaking the child as a Peer

Although a certain child appears sufficiently mature to the single parent, he/she should never treat the child as a peer. This is a frequent unintentional mistake committed by single parents. In this, they approach the child for emotional support. On the contrary, they must permit children to be children. For support and companionship, they may approach other adults.

Building up a reliable Support System

The single parent must be on the lookout for trustworthy, reliable and caring people, who would extend a helping hand in times of need. These people must be willing to offer help in emergencies, companionship, emotional support, child care etc. Such a single parent can guide his/her children to approach this system for assistance.

Caring for Self

If a single parent is stressed out, this would result in stressed out kids. In order to avoid this fact, the single parent must focus on stress management, exercise, diet and getting a peaceful sleep. It is advisable to learn visualization, meditation, yoga and relaxation.

Establishment of a Nurturing ambience

Children long for security and stability. It is the responsibility of the single parent to offer a nurturing ambience. For this, he/she must tell the children how much he/she loves the child and is proud to be the parent of such a child. It may be noted that some children demand more attention and affection as compared to an average child. So, it is essential to know the child thoroughly.

Give credit to self

Although a single parent is adequately competent and loving, it cannot be denied that he/she is performing a job meant for two individuals. The single parent must instruct the children that both of them are a team and need to collaborate. When a job is done well, this parent must give credit to himself/herself. This would boost his/her confidence. The single parent has to wait till the children are grown-up for them to give credit.

Division of Tasks

Obviously, upbringing of children implies that a single parent would be overburdened by the emotional overload, tasks and responsibilities. The solution is to have shrewd time management and whenever essential, making a request for help. Accordingly, the parent should

• Allocate some tasks and errands to the children
• Arrange car pools
• Request parents of other children to assist, etc

Attitude manipulation

The single parent must develop a positive attitude and instruct his/her children to do the same. Both must concentrate on the advantages of single parenting. They must bear in mind that there are less disputes and minimal tension in the house. There are several single parents who find their independence and newfound autonomy invaluable. Consequently, they feel hopeful regarding the days to come.

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