Real Tips for Real Single Moms!

First off, babies do not come with a guidebook, whether you are single or not. In my case, I was still legally married but we were not together anymore. By the time my son was born, I was completely sure that I would be raising him on my own. Once my divorce was final, my son's father practically vanished. I guess I'll say he relocated, and chooses not to participate physically or financially. Each and every single mother has faced her own individual challenges, but we do all have some common ground. We all believe that since 'daddy' is not there we somehow have to make up for it. And we all try. How many times have we thought to ourselves; well, he wants a dad, he wants to do dad things, so how can I fix it? Yes, you know you have asked yourself that question.

Tip #1 Realize that you can not make up for his father not being a fixture in his life. This does not mean that your child can't have a full and happy childhood. Through extended family and good friends your child can build relationships with alternative role models. Remember you are MOM What greater thing could you possibly aspire to be? Realizing that you only have one role to play, makes it much easier for you to concentrate on being the best mom you can be.

Tip #2 This tip is really just something I try to remind myself to do everyday. At some point during everyone's busy day find the time to do one thing that just makes your child laugh, smile, just be happy. Sounds like commons sense, but sometimes the simplest things are overlooked. There's always something you can do with them. When the weather is nice, a trip to the park makes my son ask to do chores. All kids love the park A couple bonus's for mom is your child is getting exercise, socializing with other kids, and it's FREE And even if you can't get to a good park, just get them outside to play at home. It's good for them, but sometimes it's just as good for you.

Tip #3 Sometimes you just can't get the kids outside to burn off all that energy. In the winter time my son and I do a lot of arts and crafts. Mostly nothing too complicated; we paint, draw, work on scrapbooks, and work on decorations for all the holidays. Of course he's not too still for long so we build forts, make our own race tracks, and wrestle with his dog. Remember that when it's cold outside it's another opportunity to spend time with your kids inside.

Tip #4 Simply try to just enjoy your children. The time you have with them is limited, so make the most of it. It is your time spent with them more than anything else that they will remember.Even though it is so hard; financially, emotionally, and physically draining, at the end of the day when you tuck them into bed, you know it's all worth it. You are teaching them by example what
is really important in life. You are their link to learning morals, reiligion, and believing in themselves. For single moms everywhere, just remember you have the most rewarding job in the world.
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