What's the best piece of advice you gave/received about being a single parent?
As a single parent, you will get tons of advice about how to be a single parent, what to do, what NOT to do, etc. Here's a bit of my advice to add to your knowledge that nobody else will tell you.
My Advice
Get it in writing! Whether it is scheduling your vaction at work, a contract job, changing a visitation week, get the plans in writing! If it is explicitely spelled out, there is no confusion and nothing to argue about!
Find a support group. There are plenty of great ones that are free through churches and hospitals or even the library. Others have a yearly membership fee like Parents Without Partners, that also offer other perks that a National Organization can do: newsletters, local events, regional and national events, legal advice, gatherings, etc.
Have fun with your child(ren). If you have always been alone or are suddenly single, enjoy the time with your child regardless of your status. They are only young for a little while. Don't mope past the whole stage of their life!
Get new hobbies. If you find yourself dwelling about your alone status too much, fins a new hobby to occupy your time and hands. Learn to sew, take a writing class, teach an art class - there are endless things to do! Be active and don't give in to pity parties about being a single parent.
Don't feel alone. Lots of other parents are single parents. They face the same issues and challenges you do and have the same struggles. Strike up a conversation if you know of another single parent. Don't be shy!
