Advantages of Single Parenting

While there are certainly disadvantages to solo child-rearing, there are also quite a few advantages of single parenting that more than outweigh the common struggles and concerns associated with a one-parent household.

While many adults who start families do so with a partner and a lifelong commitment, circumstances and life changes often put just one parent in the driver seat. The task of single parenting works best when the sole provider has a generous support system and a healthy relationship with his or her child. Whether you have become a single parent through unfortunate circumstances, or have chosen the path out of independence and commitment to providing for your child's needs all on your own, the following advantages of single parenting will help make your job more rewarding and fulfilling.

While children thrive best in a two parent home, often circumstances prevent a child from experiencing the benefits of both parents. Some parents choose or fight for sole custody to protect the safety and best interests of their children, while others have been left alone due to untimely death or illness of their partners. Single parenting (especially when entered into without choice) can be a terrifying time for the parent who is left standing. Dealing not only with the financial burdens of the family, the solo parent may also have to deal with the emotional aspects of loss, due to death, divorce or separation. While the road ahead may seem troubling, there are plenty of advantages to single parenting that will help your child thrive and grow in a positive environment. Prior to embarking on this journey, it's always best to seek the treatment of a professional family counselor that can help you cross the hurdles while strengthening your family bond. Parenting classes devoted to single parenting can provide a wealth of support and valuable information.

The advantages of single parenting can be many. Here are just a few benefits you can expect when raising your child in a one parent home:

• One Boss: It can be confusing for children to be told by one parent that they can do something, only to be told by the other that their activity or attitude is unacceptable. Solo parents have full control over what rules take place within the home, and can structure the home environment as needed to reflect house rules and regulations. Whether it be bedtime, weekend curfew, or limited television regulations, without the differentiating opinions of a separate parent, one parent has the opportunity to gain full control.
• Bonding: While the structure of the home is often more controlled in a single parent household, the emotional bonds of single parenting have the opportunity to become very unique and fulfilling. Although single parents are burdened with full responsibility of their children, take the time to remember that your child is a gift, and use this alone time to create lasting one-on-one memories that will last a lifetime. In addition to simple daily bonding, single parents will be expected to become the sole support system for their kids. If your child is enrolled in sports, make arrangements to take time off from work or your social life to make sure you're present for his most important moments.
• Full Benefits: While at first the task of single parenting may seem daunting, there are so many emotional benefits that make the task rewarding. Single parents have the gift of being their child's most important figure. Make quality time essential in your one parent home, and you're sure to reap the emotional benefit of your child's undivided attention.
• Freedom: While freedom may not be the first thing a single parent considers, the opportunity to pick up and relocate, or fulfill lifelong dreams, is often easier to achieve without catering to the career and personal goals of your partner. Single parents have the opportunity to choose their path, their lifestyle, and their environment with their children.

While single parenting has plenty of advantages, the task alone is still a great one. Make sure you have a full support system in place to help cater to the needs of your family, should further circumstances arise. Relocating near grandparents and other family relatives will help remove some of the burden while extending the closeness of your family unit. If at any time the task of being a sole-provider becomes unbearable, seek professional advice and treatment immediately. Raising a family on your own can be a rich and memorable experience. Make sure you set aside quality time with your child each and every day to fully benefit from the path of solo parenting.

by Jodie Michalak

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