Page 188 - Parenting Instructors Manual

#8 – SINGLE PARENTING AND STEP FAMILIES

• Feel like there is no time for yourself, or be too tired for it. Get
some sleep
• Trying to be “super mom” – Feel tension and guilt because they
can’t meet all their kids needs or what they want to be able to
provide – can cause them to be too harsh, or give in to their kid’s
demands

• Childcare – make sure kids are taken care of when you’re at work.
Look for after school programs and babysitters who can give you a
break.

• Be careful you don’t become too dependent on your kids or ask
them to take on an adult role in the family. Let kids stay kids. Some
responsibility is fine. Don’t make them your confidant.
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For Dads:

• When dads leave and drop out of their kids’ lives, it can be hard
for the mom and the kids.
For Evaluation Only
• Why dads drop out – feel they are less important to their kids,
frustrated or angry about the divorce, can’t afford child support or
to avoid paying child support. Or they have remarried and don’t
have as much time to give kids from the previous marriage. Feel
unwelcome by kids and don’t know how to relate.

• Stay in contact – spend as much time with your children as you
can.

• Be consistent – regular contact is better for kids.
• If you don’t live near your kids, keep in contact by phone or e-

mail.
• Your child is not an adult friend – you both need your own
friends and outside interests.

184 Parenting Pamphlet Series Instructor’s Manual Single Parenting and Step Families
©2019 Learnovation®, LLC www.learnovation.com