Things You'll Need:
- Support group
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Step 1
Love your child unconditionally. Some think they know the meaning of this but do they really? Unconditionally means that even if the child does not meet your expectations, you still love the child. Speak to the child in a caring and loving way.
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Step 2
Give the child attention. This is very important. It is not only when you decide to give it to him but more importantly when he comes to you for it. That is when you need to stop what you are doing and listen to him. Being a single parent, this can be a more difficult task than for those that have a spouse to share responsibilities with. The U.S. Census Report also states that 50 percent of female single parents and 74 parents of male single parents work full time. Nevertheless we need to do the best we can, even if we need to call the kids on our lunch and break to show them how important they are to us.
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Step 3
Trust your child, to the appropriate extent. Single-parent children are often ushered into the world of adult responsibilities earleir than their two-parent peers. You still want to make sure your child is doing what he or she should be doing. As a single parent your child may sneak things by you easily because you just don’t have the time to catch him.
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Step 4
Have others get involved in your child’s life. Family and friends can be great resources. They will understand your single parent lifestyle and know that you need help with raising your child.
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Step 5
Just because your child has only one parent raising her doesn’t mean you should damage her by spoiling her. Save treats and special gifts for special occasions such as her birthday or Christmas and keep fun activities at a typical level. You will save money and nurture a healthier child.
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Step 6
Stay away from bribes as well. Never bribe your child to do something that you want him to do. Two parents or one, bribery makes the child respond only to that type of incentive. He will then wait until you offer him something before he responds positively.
