Single parent survival tips
January 6, 2012
While being a single parent can be an extremely challenging (yet very rewarding) experience, single moms should know they are not alone.
According to SingleParentCenter.net, there are approximately 14 million single parents in the U.S., caring for 21.6 million children.
The website reports that about 80 percent of single mothers are employed outside of the home, with 50 percent working full-time and 30 percent working part-time. In addition, as many as 27 percent of single mothers live in poverty with their children.
Getting a college education is one way that many single mothers choose to help ensure their family's financial success.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), in 2010 individuals with a bachelor's degree made an average of $1,038 per week, compared to $767 per week for those with an associate's degree, $712 per week for those with some college (but no degree) and $626 per week for those with a high school diploma.
While paying for a college education while supporting a family may seem impossible to some, single mothers should know that they may qualify for various single mother scholarships, grants for parents and other financial aid to help them afford to go to school while being financially responsible for their families.
Ensuring you can financially support yourself and your children is just one of the challenges of being a single parent. Parenting magazine recently offered some tips for being the best single mother possible.
The publication recommends finding other single parent role models for yourself. In addition to serving as an inspiration, having a friend who is in a similar situation as yours can help to provide emotional support.
Whether you work or go to school, having a flexible schedule is important for single parents. Many traditional or online colleges and universities offer both full and part-time options for students, so you can find a way to pursue your dream while ensuring you're there for your kids when they need you.
Experts (and fellow single moms) say it's important to have some time to yourself every now and then as well. Whether you go out to do your grocery shopping alone or steal some time to read a good book or do something else you enjoy, recharging your battery can make you a better mom. Don't worry about hiring a sitter, either. Arrange for a friend or family member to help out with childcare duties, set up a babysitting swap with another trusted parent or schedule "you time" when your kids are with their dad.
