The Advantages of Single Parenting

There are several advantages of single parenting, but what it comes down to is accepting yourself as you are, regardless of the norms of society. If YOU don't like being a single parent, then you can choose to do something about it; but because you want to, not because you feel obliged to. If YOU like being a single parent then be proud and love yourself and your situation. There are also advantages for the children in single parent families.

Advantages For The Single Parent

Greater Control

An obvious advantage is having far greater control over the childs routines, discipline, nutrition and habits than may be the case when living with the father. There are sometimes conflicts over how to discipline the child and that just leads to confusion and insecurity.

My Experience

During my first marriage I found myself saying nothing when my 3 year old was still up at 10pm when I got home from work and even allowed him to stay up late when I wasn't working, because I figured that consistency was more important than the time.

A big problem in some households is the children trying to divide and rule: trying to play one parent off against the other in order to get what they want. This is clearly much less of an issue in single parent households.

Total Financial Control

Having total financial control can be a huge relief if you were with a financially irresponsible partner. You may have less income now, but you're now able to choose exactly how it's used.

Less People to Care For

It's often said by mothers that the husband is like another child in the house, in fact my husband jokes about it! Of course some husbands are more helpful and considerate around the house than others. But all husbands make basic demands on their wives' time and energy. For the single mother they need only worry about themselves and the kids.

More Time For The Child

Another of the advantages of single parenting is having more time for the child. The single mom is able to focus on the childs best interests without distractions or conflicting opinions getting in the way.

Advantages For The Child of a Single Parent

Leaving The Conflict Behind

Some of the advantages of single parenting arise from a high-conflict divorce situation. The obvious advantage then is that (at least day to day) the conflict is left behind. There is plenty of research to show that it is detrimental for a child to live in a household full of conflict. It is damaging to their self esteem to see abuse take place because they subconsciously blame themselves. It also distorts their view of relationships and therefore reduces their ability to build relationships with others.

Increased Independence

Children of single parents tend to be more independent. I guess that's because there is only one adult to do everything that needs to be done and therefore the children will need to muck in at an earlier age than perhaps otherwise they would.

Two Different Home Regimes

Spending time in two different home situations will teach the child flexibility, resilience and adaptability; all skills which will assist them in adult life.

Two Celebrations!

This is the one that most excites the kids I suspect! Every birthday and Christmas is doubled up! More gifts, more part food, yeh man!

Decide What You Want

At the end of the day there can be a million advantages of single parenting, but if you're unhappy, they mean nothing. At that point you can decide to take considered action to meet someone for frienship or romance.

My Story

I was a single parent for 18 months and initially was quite happy without a man in my life (relieved actually!). There came a time though that I wanted someone special in my life. I joined a dating agency and Barry was my third date! We are a happily ever after story!!