• Skip to main content
  • Skip to secondary menu
  • Skip to primary sidebar

Because dads don’t always think like moms™

  • Dad
    • Celebrities
    • Gay Dads
    • Sex
    • Single Dads
  • Pregnancy
    • Labor or Delivery
    • Pregnant Wife
  • Baby
    • Baby Naming
    • Feeding
    • Sleep
    • Toilet Training
  • Kids
  • Teens
  • Activities
    • Local
    • By Age
    • Movie Reviews
    • Celebrations
  • Toys
    • We Recommend
    • Toys
  • Coaching for Dads
  • Great Dad Talks Podcast

Single Parenting – Four Role Models to Avoid

May 13, 2008 by GreatDad Writers 1 Comment

Nobody ever said single parenting is easy. As parents, we all learn with time. However, too often, the pressure of single parenting can be so overwhelming that it’s easy to make mistakes.

Are you one of these single parents? Learn how you can avoid being one:

The Emotional Patient
Most single parents try to be a good friend to their children, which is a good thing. However, a problem arises when single dads or moms see their children as a source of emotional support. Children of single parents need stability and security. A divorce or the death of a parent can be a particularly traumatic experience for them. No matter how mature or old your children are, avoid making them your confidante on issues such as how much money you have or what a lousy day you had. Don’t rob them of their time to be children. It is unfair to burden them with issues that are difficult for them to handle. If you need to speak to someone, speak to your friends or a counselor.

The Guilt Tripper
As a single parent, it is easy to feel guilty about many things. Not being around when your children need you, not being able to help them with their homework, and so on. The danger with feeling guilty all the time is that some single parents tend to develop a lower self esteem that they may pass on to the children. Don’t be hard on yourself. Learn to take the ups and downs in your stride. And, by all means, don’t try to bolster your self-image by fishing for compliments about what kind of parent you are.

The Permissive Parent
Children need as much love and attention as you can give them. However, some single parents make the mistake of being too permissive and never correct their children when it’s necessary. Research has shown that the children brought up in overly permissive parenting style may develop behavioral problems because they do not easily accept responsibility.

Be firm and know where to draw the line. Shower your children with affection but set clear rules and limits. This, of course, does not mean being harsh or too authoritarian. Perfect the art of saying “I love you but a NO means a NO.”

The Martyr
Single parenting can be such an overwhelming experience that many parents simply forget to take care of themselves. With all the effort and sacrifice required to handle regular tasks such as meals and activities, it’s no surprise that many single parents get burned out. Don’t be a martyr. Your children require your time and energy and the only way to sustain it is by allotting some time for yourself. Pamper yourself from time to time, be it writing in your journal, listening to music, or working out in the gym. Arrange for a babysitter or a trusted friend to look after your children when you are away. Look at it not just as time goofing off, but very important re-charging time so you can get back to the difficult job of being a great dad.

Filed Under: Divorced Dads

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. liz says

    November 30, -0001 at 12:00 am

    thank you for those tips they are very supportive.

    Log in to Reply

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

Primary Sidebar

  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Pinterest
  • Twitter
  • YouTube

Great Dad Talks

Great Dad Talks
Great Dad Talks

Great Dad Talks is a series of conversations with experts on all aspects of the family adventure. With the perspective that “dads don’t always think like moms,” our mission is to support dad voices and our slightly different approaches to parenting. We’ll try to find solutions to every day challenges like getting kids off the couch and making STEM classes available for both boys and girls. But we’ll also tackle bigger issues when they come. The one main theme will be to support dads in the most important role of their lives that of being a great dad.

Connect with us at greatdad.com and watch the video version of these podcasts at YouTube.com/greatdadnews

Hacking Life After 50 with Mark Barnes
byPaul Banas

Tune in to this episode with guest Mark Barnes and delve into the topics of finding purpose, setting goals, and navigating life transitions. Mark shares his insights and personal experiences on how dads can continue to thrive and find fulfillment as their children grow up and their own lives shift. From planning for the future to staying curious and staying in shape, Mark provides valuable advice and strategies for dads in different stages of life.

Navigate life’s transitions with purpose and fulfillment by visiting Mark’s website: 10publications.com

Visit these links and embark on the path to becoming the best parent you can be:

  • GreatDad.com/coaching
  • GreatDad.com/pq
  • Gratitude course: bit.ly/3NMLDNC 50% off for podcast listeners with code PODCAST50
Hacking Life After 50 with Mark Barnes
Hacking Life After 50 with Mark Barnes
September 26, 2023
Paul Banas
Building Authentic Connections with Ron Macklin
September 19, 2023
Paul Banas
Navigating College Admissions with Dr. Kuni Beasley
September 12, 2023
Paul Banas
Longevity and Healthy Aging with Al Lyman
September 7, 2023
Paul Banas
Balancing Entrepreneurship and Fatherhood with Cory Rankin
August 31, 2023
Paul Banas
The Role of Fathers in Parenting with Brent Dowlen
August 31, 2023
Paul Banas
Empowering Kids Through Sports with Antwaun Thompson
August 24, 2023
Paul Banas
Promoting Healthy Screen Time Habits with Hamel Shah
August 15, 2023
Paul Banas
Building Strong Connections through Family Meals with Jeff Christian
August 11, 2023
Paul Banas
Supporting Kids Through Sports with Michael Hubicki
August 1, 2023
Paul Banas
Search Results placeholder

More to See

How Podcasting Can Help Entrepreneurs with Evans Putnam

September 2, 2023 By Paul Banas

Making Financial Decisions with Jasper Smith

July 20, 2023 By Paul Banas

Copyright © 2023 . GreatDad