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I've been a single parent twice. Each time happened as a result of two completely different set of circumstances. One was by choice and the other not so much. Making the choice can be a difficult one but sometimes that choice in itself sparks some confidence that will be much needed later on. For those that arrived here and it was not by choice probably need a crash course on confidence because the unexpected can sometimes deliver a blow to your self-image.

Whether by choice or not, we need to show our children that we are a family and that this family's health, safety and happiness is important. We need to show them that as a unit we can do anything but if we try to go it alone it will increase the struggles that come upon us. Here are some ideas and tips that will help you in your journey through single parenthood. They have helped me.

1) Be the head of the house
As the parent, you ARE the head of the household. Refrain from allowing any older children or boys to try to take over that role. They need to be kids and although there is nothing wrong with them helping, they shouldn't engage in a power struggle with their parent for control. This will only lead to problems later on, such as when a teenage boy thinks he rules the roost and can do whatever he likes because he is the head of the house. No one wants a teen to run amok without rules! No one wants a teen to use their as yet to be fully developed minds to decide what is right and wrong for the family.

2) Have kids help
It really doesn't matter what age the kids are, they can help. At 7 my kids were able to rinse their own dishes off and put them in the dishwasher. At 9 or 10 they can start learning to wash their own clothes. You might have to sort them and help them, but let them do it, and soon enough they will be doing it alone. At as early as 7 or 8 they can make their own lunch. You might have to check it and make sure everything is OK, but eventually you won't have to and they will be doing it themselves. If it is a general rule in the house that everyone cleans up after themselves then your life is easier and they are learning responsibility and their future wife/husband will thank you for it! Don't be afraid to teach them how to care for themselves! It doesn't mean you are not a good mom; in fact the opposite is true! You are being a good mom by teaching them life skills and teaching them early so that they can make them part of their daily routine.

3) Get to know neighbors
If you get to know your neighbors

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