All About Single Parents

The Wikipedia Web site defines single parents are parents without partners in
raising a child or children. A single parent, accordingly is one parent who is
not living with the child's or children's other significant parent,

Definitions and descriptions of single parents vary and differ from one society
or country to another society or nation. Different cultures also foster
different treatment and classification for single parents.

In one country, however, single parents are treated differently according to
geographic locations. For example, single parents in the industrial and
commercial cities are treated differently and are provided with different perks
as compared to those single parents who are based in provinces or the rural
areas.

Single parenthood is becoming a very popular style of living nowadays. However,
not all societies are readily prepared to accept and treat the trend or concept
as a rising trend or norm.

The technical definition of single parents

Single parents are either left alone or abandoned by the other significant
parent or their partners. The abandonment involved may come in different
occasions and forms.

Single parents are usually abandoned by their respective partners after
divorce, after separation (both legal and in principle), after the other parent
is jailed, after practical abandonment or after the other parent dies.

Single parents, in more rare cases, do not really have to be the child or
children's biological parents. Yes, blood and DNS affinity may not be the only
basis on parenthood.

This also applies to single parents. Single parenthood really is a choice,
especially if the child is not really biologically from the single moo or
single dad. What a noble situation if that happens!

Single parents, according to recent studies, also become such through different
means. Single parents have or attain their children by legal or in-principle
adoption or by bearing the child through artificial insemination or surrogate
parenting.

Single parenthood, therefore, is a choice. Single parents practically choose to
be such. You know how hard it is to raise children nowadays. Financially,
physically, emotionally and mentally, single parenthood can really be draining.

In other countries, especially those characterized by strict and old-fashioned
norms or cultures, single parents are still considered outcasts. That is
because during those rare cases, single parents are treated like they have done
unforgivable mistakes or misgivings.

The rising trend of single parents

A recent commissioned study or research in the United States alone reveals that
about three children in every ten children on a nationwide average live in homes
run by single parents.

The most common and prevalent type of single parents are those situations where
there is the single mom. It should also be noted, however, that the other type
of single parenthood, those with the father acting as both the mom and the dad
of the child is also rapidly increasing.

The father as the single parent is the common single parenthood setting in the
Islamic countries. That is because the governments of these nations still do
not recognize the value and the ability of women, particularly moms to raise
children or even carry on such great responsibilities.

The 2002 Census report in the United States show that there were only 15% of
custodial parenthoods, whose single parent carrying on the responsibility of
raising the child is the father. For comparison, that figure has risen by 10%
over the past ten years.

It means, in the 1990s, it was very rare that single dads carry on the
responsibility of solely raising the child. Tides have turned since then,
apparently. Single dads are now becoming a popular notion, concept or situation
in the modern society.

Single parenthood

Indeed, you must not be too judgmental against single parents, especially in
these times. It is because the trend and concept of single parenthood is
becoming not uncommon to almost all societies around the world.

Gone were the days when children raised by single parents were called bastards
and were teased ceaselessly in school. The legislative sector now has
instituted laws to protect children of single parents.

Single parenthood is becoming too popular and common that it is now an accepted
situation and occurrence. Commend and congratulate single parents. The choice
they have made for their lives are truly courageous.

Understanding Single Parents

Separation or independence might come as a big surprise to you. At first, you
will most probably be feeling panicky finally realizing that you have to take
care of your kids and never forget this, yourself as well.

If you do not take care of yourself, then you do not make yourself immune to
certain negative circumstances that may hinder the care and love that you can
give your children.

As a single parent, you have to assure yourself with good health. Aside from
the fact that it could add up to your expenses, if you get weak, who will take
care of your kids then?

However, you can also see separation from a different light. As a single
parent, you have to take control of your life, in different ways that are new
and could turn out to be very exciting, as you learn to embrace and accept the
changes in your life and the lives of your children as well.

Making decisions would not be the same because, now, the decisions you have to
make should be supportive of your family.

Once you are in a more effective control over your life and your kids', it
would be eventual that better choices should be made.

These said choices are very effective of your relations with your parents, you
children, the parents of your spouse, if your are single because of his or her
death, or your ex-spouse, if you had either an annulment or a divorce. These
choices are also capable of affecting your health and your happiness.

However, due to misfortune, you could be having problems raising your kids. You
are not alone on this. There are quite a big number of single parents out there.
There is no reason for you to isolate yourself from the world.

There are also coaches who are always ready to advise you. You can definitely
learn a lot from these coaches, parent coaches or kid coaches, and apply what
you have learned in your life as a single parent.

You can work as a so-called "team" with these coaches to prevent problems
within your family. They will be giving you advices that can do so; all you
have to do is read on.

As a single parent, you must not force your children to trust you. If this
whole single parent thing is okay with you, it might not be the same thing with
them. Trust is not bought, it is gained.

If your kids are finally comfortable having you as their only parent, you will
know so. Your kids will just eventually learn to solve their own problems the
right way and accept the decisions you will make because of trust, and not
force.

It is in truth that children can get really stubborn at times; it is already
part of their system. But do not, under any circumstances, punish your kids. If
you will submit your kids into punishment when they do wrong, they will most
probably grow old evading responsibilities rather than to accept them.

Yes, parenting has indeed evolved. Parenting in the society today is very
different from the kind of parenting that your parents grew up with. The rules
have changed and there was a rapid increase of the dangers of your children.

If you go to certain experts on this kind of situation, they will probably tell
you to put your child on time out. This is not a very helpful advice but still,
you must not put the professionals to blame for they, too, are products of
society. They most probably grew up in the same kind of parenting as you did.

What you most definitely need, as a single parent, are tools and a step by step
know how in finding and attaining new hope and happiness, together with your
family.

There are various kinds of single parents. Some are single parents because of a
divorce, some were not even married at all, other single parents are such
because they were widowed, and some, dut to a very kind heart, adopted those
unfortunate children to give them a better life. Whatever it is that led you to
being a single parent does not matter, what matters is the ife that you have now
being a single parent to your kids.

Questions Most Single Parents Ask About Relationships

Single parents do have special issues when they are looking for relationships.
Developing a romance or having on overnight guest can sometimes be awkward with
children at home. And practical obstacles, such as baby sitters' schedules, can
make it difficult to exercise the freedom a single parent would otherwise have.

But, often, there are ways to handle these so that you can have the life you
want and still be a loving and responsible parent.

When you have children to care for, many questions arise which childless
singles do not have to consider.

1) Are you concerned about making the most of visitation time with your kids?

2) Do you think potential partners are scared off because you're a parent

3) Do you worry how to answer a child's questions about your romantic life

4) Do you wonder when you should introduce your child to someone you're 
   dating

5) Are you concerned about the legal implications of getting involved with
   somebody?

Here are some solutions to the common questions single parents are concerned
with.

Potential partners are driven away by single parenthood

If you have a kid and you are dating someone who dislikes or has little
interest in children, then you are probably better off thinking of this
relationship as temporary rather than work it out to be potentially lasting
commitment. By expecting that the person will change, you may be setting
yourself up for disappointing in the long run.

As a relationship develops, it eventually becomes important to introduce your
significant other to your kids. If, over time, there's a clash between them,
your relationship might not be feasible, no matter how romantic you both feel
when the two of you are alone.

Making the most of kids' visitation time

If you have to balance visitation time with your social life, the principle is
to make your activities and the general climate as normal for all of you as
possible. That way, your kid will also have much less difficulty adjusting when
he or she goes home to the custodial parent. Always remember that you have
divorced your spouse, but not your kids.

Introducing the significant other to the children

When you are beginning to get more involved, it's time to let the other person
meet the kids. Make some observations. How does your friend interact with your
kids?...

* Does your friend make an effort to get to know your children?

* Does he or she seem jealous of or threatened by them?

* Is he or she competing with the kids for your attention?

If your partner resents their presence, this is unlikely to change, leaving
your torn as the relationship progresses. Your kids are here to stay, but your
partner may not be. Any adult who puts a parent in the position of having to
choose is exhibiting immature behavior.

Facing questions about your romantic life

Children ask questions about a single parent's partners at different ages. Tell
them the truth. If you are seriously involved with someone, it's okay to let
them know. ON the other hand, there's no reason why they need to know the
details of your relationship that don't concern them.

Kids of single parents simply want assurance that everything that affects them
will be all right. They may fear being told, suddenly, that their life is going
to change without their needs being considered. They will usually ask what they
need to know.

The Plight of Single Parents

For the past 25 years, single parenthood has become more and more common in
society. New set-ups are emerging aside from the traditional nuclear family.

Single parenthood is commonly brought about by three things: divorce, death of
the spouse or teenage pregnancy. Cohabitation outside a matrimonial set-up is
common but it changes not so much the real parental status as the statistics
behind it.

The number of single parent families has doubled in the last two decades. US
census estimates that 59 percent of children in America will live with a single
parent at least once. There are about 12 million single parents in the United
States. About 20 million or 28 percent of children under 18 live with a single
parent. 84 percent of those who live with one parent live with their mother.

Families which are headed by women are more vulnerable. Women's social position
is still relatively weaker than that of men. Single mothers have to cope with
existing gender-based limitations for gainful employment vis-à-vis a very
demanding family life.

Although 53.3 percent of single mothers in the U.S. are in the labor force, 3.9
million or 28 percent of households with a female single parent are in poverty
compared to just 5.5 percent of two-parent families.

This is because of the fact that the median family income for U.S. female
single parents is $25,500 which is about half the average income of all
families and less than half of the income of married-couple families. Adjusting
for inflation, it is even less than the median family income of married-couple
families in 1969 ($39,800).

In comparison, 13.3 percent of households run by male single parents are in
poverty. This is much less than the rate for single mothers, but still more
than twice the poverty rate for married-couple families.

There had been policy proposals for single parents to receive social benefits
but these have been controversial. According to liberal individualist, if
people choose to have children, they are responsible to look after them.

The collectivist position which dominates continental Europe holds that
children are other people's business as well. This position also believes that
the interest of the children is far greater than any concerns about the
morality of the parents.

Aside from these economic realities, single parents also have to face the
reality that children who live with single parents or even with a parent and
step-parent, experience disadvantages in terms of psychological functioning,
behavioral problems, education, and health.

Children with single parents are one and a half times likely to drop out of
school and work in their early teens and twenties than children who grew up
with two parents. Children with single parents are also twice as likely to have
a child before the age of 20 as those raised in two-parent family.

Many psychologists and child development workers argue however that these
studies are oversimplified and outdated. Many factors are involved in the
psychological development of a child raised in a single parent home.
Cooperation between divorced parents and quality of attention given to the
child are examples.

No child in a single parent family is by default doomed for a maladjusted life.
Single parents must model self-respect and self-nurturance to the children and
establish a support system for the family.

Many studies have shown that children with single parents tend to have poorer
academic performance and receive less intellectual stimulation than children
living with married parents.

However, studies in the College of Human Ecology at Cornell University indicate
that having a support system like a grandparent in the home, appears to buffer
some of these negative effects. Children who live with a single parent and a
grandparent fare just as well academically as children living with married
parents.

These findings contradict the idea that living with two married parents is the
only situation in which children can thrive.

Single Parenting, A New type of family

A family is said to be the foundation of the society. When you say a family, it
must have a father, mother and their children.

How About Single Parenting?

In this modern age, single parenting is now acceptable in our society. Single 
parenting is the term we used for a person building a family or raising a child 
without marriage or without the present of husband or wife.

Anyone can be a single parent depending upon the relationship you established
with your partner. Single parenting is sometimes caused by divorce. Single
parents are very common to western countries where divorce is legal. If the
court finds the marriage unsuitable and no hope for reconciliation between the
couple, the court has no choice but to grant the divorce.

Single parenting can be also caused by the death of the partner. They said that
life is too short and no one knows your death. Single parents who are widow
usually had a hard time of accepting their faith. Single parenting caused by
death underwent to some stages like anger, denial, depression, bargaining, and
the last is acceptance. These stages are also common to divorce single parents.

Single parenting caused by adoption of a child are widely accepted these days.
Most single man and women believed that singleness are their destiny but most
them are only caused by their pursued career and disregard the idea of being
married and having their own children until they reach maturity and become a
good provider. Single men and woman opt to adopt to feel more complete.

Single parents who have adopted usually feel that their life is incomplete
without a child and only realizes the needs of it when they already feel the
loneliness of being alone and money cannot fill-up their desire to have their
own family even without a husband or wife. They have realized that success is
no meaning if there is no one you can share with it. Single adoptive parenting
is ideal also for those who are sterile people who are sure enough that can
give and share their life to the children who needs loving and caring.

Single parenting can also be caused by early pregnancy. These kinds of single
parents are very common to teenagers, who become rebellious from their parents.
They felt neglected by their parents not only of their needs but their love and
attention that they expected from them. Because of this feeling of being
neglected, teenagers learn to find and look for someone who can fulfills their
needs for love and affection that commonly resulted of early pregnancies from
their boyfriends.

Single parenting caused by early pregnancy is very difficult to manage because
what we can expect from teenagers are immaturity, inconsideration and
unpreparedness to face the future. Because of immaturity, relationship of
teenagers towards their partner usually ends early.

Single parenting which is caused by early pregnancy are committed by teenagers
who are adventurous. They want to know everything and anything under the sun
even it is far beyond the limit and their age. Being adventurous of teenagers
can be good if they gain knowledge and experience from what they do but it can
also harm them without them knowing. Teenagers who are adventurous of sex and
relationships may result to early pregnancy that leads often to single
parenthood. They even have no courage to make a background check of their
partner.

How Society can help Single Parents

Single parenting is never easy. It drains the body of every single parent, 
working like a dog at work, running a household, provide their children of all 
their needs from food, shelter, education and medicine and clothing. It also 
drains their mind by thinking for the betterment of their child from their 
spiritual, emotional, social, physical and mental behavior.

Single parenting can change the totality of a person. Single parents should
have a different method in molding the character of their child for they are
prone from bullies and criticism from other people. Single parents should learn
how to deal and cope to the moods of their child especially the single adoptive
parents. Children of single adoptive parents are characterized as doubtful and
sometimes you need to show them your sincerity of having them in your life.

Single parenting needs understanding and encouragement from the society. To be
able to do this, people should learn to accept single parents as equal from the
common idea of family life. They should help to shower and nurture love to their
children. They should be able to think better ways of how to lessen the burdens
of single parent.

On Single Parenting: Few Truths Of Single Parenting

Global way of living has changed significantly over the last twenty-five years.
It has affected different aspects of our lifestyle -- from the general way of
thinking, education, finances, child and healthcare, even the way we manage our
families. This fast-paced change has shaped the way we live our lives, including
parenting.

Single parenting is defined as a parent (whether the wife, or the husband)
doing the role of maintaining the nuclear family, as a result of death,
divorce, separation, or personal choice.

This type of parenting is an additional arm of the traditional nuclear and
extended family types that we have learned since childhood. Nuclear families
consist of two parents, and children who are living in the same house.

Extended families, on the other hand, consists of two parents, children and
aunts, uncles or grandparents living in the same house. Since the 80's, the
number of single parent families in the US have doubled.

The top three causes of single parenting are: death of a spouse, divorce and
personal choice (unwed teenage mothers, choice of raising a family without a
partner, etc). These causes have a significant effect on the family's way of
life, and require major adjustments to the entire family emotionally. Feelings
of resentment, guilt and despair are typical of the spouse who is left behind.

Grief is the most often feeling felt by the individual left behind. This can
lead to depression, losing control of one's own life. More adverse effects of
grief leads to drug and alcohol addiction, and even death.

Studies have defined the 5 Steps of Grief:

1) Denial -- This stage comprises of feelings of guilt and denial. The feeling
of "he is just away, and will come back" are the usual reactions to this stage.

2) Anger -- This stage comprises of extreme anger towards the person who left
or died.

3) Bargaining -- This stage comprises of negotiating with God, if the partner
has died, or negotiating with the partner regarding changing what went wrong in
the relationship.

4) Depression -- This stage comprises of the near-realization that the
situation will not change. This is where the acknowledgement of what happened
starts.

5) Acceptance -- This stage is the acknowledgement and acceptance of the grief,
and letting go of the feelings of despair.

The effects of single parenting are usually felt not just by the spouse left
behind, but to the entire family as well, particularly children. Studies have
shown that children have felt betrayed, taken advantaged of, and felt
inadequate as a result of parent separations.

To combat the grief brought about by single parenting, the following tips have
been suggested:

1) Accepting responsibilities -- Being a single parent means maximizing all
resources to take care of the family. This means looking for all possible, even
creative solutions to solve a problem. One should not spend time blaming others
for what happened, but instead, look for ways in addressing the problem.

An example is looking for alternative ways to find transportation for a child's
first day of school. Instead of screaming and whining, the parent should look
for alternatives -- looking for relatives who can drop off the child or working
around the parent's schedule to drop off the child to school.

2) Family as the first choice -- Successful single parent families have made
their family as the top priority. These means determining non-negotiables and
balancing commitments. Single parents usually forego career changing decisions
for the family.

3) Communication -- The parent and the child need to establish open
communication between the two of them, to know what the wants and needs of each
other, and to fulfill these wants and needs. Communication is the key to an open
relationship. Clear communication channels foster an open relationship between
the parent and the child.

4) Taking care of yourself -- If the parent does not take control of his/her
life, he cannot take control of his/her child's life. One should take care of
himself/herself physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Taking care of onself
ensures a positive environment of hope and love in the family.

5) Establish routine -- Routines before the divorce or death should be kept,
because this is the child's only anchor that things have not drastically
changed. Walks on the park, reading bed times stories, or the usual Christmas
dinner should be continued even after the death or divorce.

Different Effects of Single Parenting to Children and Single Parents

What are effects of single parenting to adult? 

Single parenting is a tough and very challenging task. Many single parents 
suffer the negative effects of single parenting.

Financial struggles is one of the negative effects of single parenting. This,
however, can be solve by finding a job that can support both you and child.
Single parents can also find a job within their local community that may afford
them to sustain the needs of their children.

Single Parents should also learn to cut the cost of their daily expenses such
as food, transportation, personal cost and child cost. Single parents should
learn how to save their time and energy because they are playing two roles for
their children.

Cost cutting of food expenses like shopping food once a week with a list in
your hand to lessen impulse buying. Shopping food alone at discounted grocery
stores than in convenient stores with high prices may help you save some bucks
too. Also, plan your meals for one week. As much as possible, use your
electrical appliances efficiently.

Your personal and child cost can be cut by exchanging or sharing your services
with friends like babysitting, window washing and gardening. You can also
barter your talents like typing, sewing and painting. You can also trim your
child's hair by your own.

One of the negative effects of single parenting is isolation. You can overcome
this by getting support from your family, relatives and friends and even social
groups in your community. Try to mingle and participate in your church
activities and activities held by your community.

The lack of support, another negative effects of single parenting, can be
remedied by establishing a connection and communication to the people around
you. Communication is important for every single parent to make others
understand their situation and gain support from them.

Emotional distress, also one of the negative effects of single parenting, can
be conquered by letting yourself go on an emotion process aided by a
professional. This emotional process is management of emotion from denial,
anger, depression, bargaining and until you reach acceptance.

What are the effects of single parenting to children?

Not only adults suffer the negative effects of single parenting. In fact,
children are the most affected by it. Children being raised with this type of
parenting are in high risk of experiencing behavioral and emotional distress
due to stress.

They may also have a hard time to adjust to their present situation a divorce
or death of one of their parents. Children sometimes become confused, lonely,
fearful, sad and angry.

There's a solution to the negative effects of single parenting. If single
parents will only have an open mind, they will understand that children needs
proper care and enough love to understand and fight the negative effects of
single parenting.

How to reduce the negative effects of single parenting?

Healing your child from the negative effects of single parenting may be started
by engaging your child into different activities that they love. Sports are good
examples of activities that can help single parents and their children forget
the hardships or traumatic experiences that they have gone through.

For married couples who are planning for a divorce, let your child know what's
really happening with your relationship. Talk to your child and assure them
that they are not the reason for the divorce.

To reduce the negative effects of single parenting, single parents must talk to
their children. Always. Let them express their feeling about the divorce, about
the moving, and changing of schools. Let your children know that whatever
happens to the marriage, you still love them. Parents, as much as possible,
must settle their difference amicably so that their children can adapt easily
to the situation and to lessen the tension on their part.

Children need security, a loving, nurturing and healthy environment for better
emotional growth and psychological development. Whatever kind of family you
have, children will grow up to be fine men or women even if they are a product
of single parenting. It's up to the single parent how they will raise their
child into a loving and respectful person.

Unveiling the Possible Effects of Single Parenting

Times are rapidly changing. The elderly always argue that the modern culture
has forsaken and outgrown the values taught and instilled by old customs,
beliefs and traditions.

Moralists and conservative people are almost always raising their brows and
expressing disgust over how current belief and culture systems are evolving.
What has been unacceptable in the old world is now becoming fast and rapidly
rising trends.

Taboos and outcast-driving issues of yester years are now very common have set
minds of people that they actually are just normal and acceptable.

The Child

Because single parenting or parenthood is somehow a choice and decision, taken
by the parent, one voice is still unheard of. It is that of the child's.

Psychologists and advocates argue and insist that single parenting has adverse
mental, emotional and psychological effect to the child. Tests from time to
time validate that premise.

Several studies have found that the child's thinking and mental mind set is
somehow altered or affected if that child was raised by a single parent.

Although single parents must be commended for raising a child alone, he or she
should not be blamed for any mental or psychological result of the situation to
the child, as psychological assert.

Tests and observations have consistently concluded and found that single
parenting makes children more aggressive and rebellious. Experts say the
behavior could be the outcome of the angst and humiliation the child
experiences while growing.

Because traditional and normal families have two parents, the mom and the dad,
jointly raising kids, single parenting somehow makes the child feel abnormal,
different and unaccepted.

The society can sometimes be too cruel for such children, which can make things
worse. Humiliation and awkward feeling of insecurity is dangerous if left
untreated or undetected in the child. That child can take the burden for the
rest of his or her life.

Single parents

One of the issues that were raising the ire of people decades and even
centuries back is the issue of single parenting. A quick look at social
philosophies link single parenting to adventurism and liberation of people.

The Catholic Church has always been the dominating mentor and guide of
traditions, norms and living. The church is so adamant to advocate the sanctity
of the sacrament of marriage of matrimony.

That is why the procreation outside wedlock is strictly considered a ground for
excommunication. It is one of the greatest sins, according to the Catholic
Church, to engage in pre-marital sex.

Single parenthood, in that sense, can be taken in as a punishment of some
sorts, to the people who disobey the teachings of the church. But radical
thinkers think otherwise. So, is it?

Single parenting is becoming a rapidly rising trend in the society. Studies in
the US alone indicate that there are four single parents to every ten parents,
there are two single parents for every 10 adults in the country.

Your great grandparents must be really turning up their graves of they could be
able to hear such statistics. How times have changed! Thus, single parents and
their children both need professional help through counseling. Reasonable
advise and guides should be given both to the child and the single parent to
make sure both of them deal with past, present and future issues from single
parenting.

Counseling from professionals can form or make up a support system that will
make single parenting easier and more effective. Because single parenting is no
ordinary parenting, the parent and the child must learn to accept the situation
minus the negative feeling.

Nowadays, single parenting is becoming a normal occurrence. Society is not that
judgmental anymore towards the single parent and the child. Probably, it can be
because of the immunity due to the rising number of single parents. Anyway, it
can be positive because at least, single parents choose to be productive.

Effects of Single Parenting: Coping With Reality

The number of single parents has increased over the last twenty years. The
number of children who have been a product of single parents have continually
grown as well. This is because the overall change in society has changed
drastically over the past years.

How a person reacts to certain situations, and how one copes with change have
affected decisions involving families today. Studies have shown that there are
effects, whether positive or negative on being a single parent to children.

Conflicting studies have shown that there are positive and negative effects of
single parenting. Some studies show that children who have been exposed to
single parenting have lower self-esteem that that of shared parenting.

On the other hand, some studies show that single or shared parenting does not
have any effect on the growth or well-being of a parent. How a parent deals
with a child, and oneself can mold the dynamics of the family, which can lead
to the emotional well-being of both the parent and the child.

If the single parent relationship between the parent and child is carefully
managed, the following positive outcomes may be felt within the family:

1) Gradual lessening of tension- Prior to being a single parent, feelings of
tension are present and are felt by the parents and children.

Oftentimes, the feelings of the child are not felt by both parents. When the
situation is explained to the child, this can lead to a feeling of
understanding on why the separation happened.

This understanding can help the child cope with the current situation, and thus
gradually release tension towards the child's parents, and to other people as
well.

2) More time with each other- Tension felt during the discussions on separation
and divorce lead to neglecting children. Screaming matches, and not speaking to
each other are common feelings felt by children and the parent.

The effect of being a single parent thus gives more time to address the needs
of children, and open communication channels between the two. Planning
vacations, and bonding sessions with each other can be a result of this. More
time would lead to a more relaxed family atmosphere.

3) Re-establishing ties with the community- Children and parents can work
together, and can even establish relationships with the community because of
this effect of single parenting.

Single parents can ask help from their neighbors regarding the care of their
children, such as baby-sitting or helping out with household chores. This often
leads to a positive feeling of involvement on both the parent and the child, and
the neighborhood as well.

4) Out of the box experience to the child- Since the child now shuttles between
two separate parents, the child can broaden his/her experiences pertaining to
life. The child is more sensitive and aware to what goes around his/her life,
and can feel that the world does not revolve around him.

5) A sense of accomplishment -- When a child is designated with small
responsibilities, a sense of accomplishment usually is felt. Since additional
responsibilities have been added, a feeling of openness is added to the sense
of accomplishment felt. This is because a feat has been done to help out in the
household. This makes the child feel that he/she is an important member of the
household.

6) Prioritizing to lead to work and life balance -- Single parents need to
learn the value of prioritizing. Sometimes, new tasks are needed to be able to
look for new types of jobs to support the family.

Schedules, school and financial obligations need to be prioritized to be able
to maintain work and life balance. Attaining work life balance is a continuous
challenge to the parent, due to additional responsibilities of managing a
family.

7) Active role in decision making -- Children can play an active role in the
decision making of single parents. Single parents need additional minds to
think most especially in making major decisions.

Theories Regarding Single Parenting

Theories regarding single parenting depends upon the the beliefs and ideals of
a person. Some people base their concept or theories on experiences of single
parents. Some of them base it on analytical thinking.

There are theories regarding single parenting that is said to be irritating to
the ears of single parent especially if it affects the morality of a person as
a Christian. Nevertheless, if we will listen to the person sharing his theories
regarding single parenting, you can pick up a little knowledge that you can
share to others.

There are theories regarding single parenting that sometimes caused a debate
like theories regarding single parents punishing their children every time they
did something wrong. Others agree on this concept while others do not.

For those who agree that this theory regarding single parenting is right, say
that to be able to create fine men and women, punishment is needed. It lessens
their mistakes in life. If not punished, they will do the same mistakes their
single parents have done. On the contrary, people who disagreed in this theory
regarding single parenting, they believe that punishment will only make
children become fearful, non-cooperative, and dependent to others.

Theories regarding single parenting may vary according to the beliefs, customs
and tradition revolving around the community. Unknowingly, people produced
theories according to their experience and pass it out to next generations.

Handling your children should not base on any concept or theories regarding
single parenting. Nurturing, caring, loving is enough for a child to understand
what you feel for him.

Don't let any theories regarding single parenting manipulate your lives. Better
make it a guide but not necessarily follow all those concepts. Learn to pick
only the beneficial ones. Learn from the lessons of the theories regarding
single parenting.

Theories regarding single parenting sprouted like a mushroom through the years
because of the great need of single parents to mold their children with good
attitude.

There are theories regarding single parenting that deals on educating single
parents to teach their children on how to strengthen the faith to God. It is
very important to strengthen the faith of every child especially children of
single parents because it can be their weapon in every struggles in life.

Theories regarding single parenting that are the topics of debates must be
analyzed with balanced judgment. Single parents must have a wide knowledge to
be able to sort capture only all the good lessons from bad.

Theories of single parenting existed many years ago. Even in history books, we
read about it. The topic of before still remains the topic of today.

Theories on single parenting differ according to the needs of single parent.
Single parenting which has resulted from divorce must understand theories on
single parenting that are appropriate for them. They should learn how to cope
on their situation. They must also learn to avoid bad comments pertaining to
the other parent of the child.

Single parents should learn to settle amicably the differences between the
other parents of the child. Single parents must also learn the right time of
dating again on opposite gender. Theories regarding single parenting might help
them.

Theories regarding single parenting on rebellious stage of children should be
deal with maturely. Children who are product of a divorce or separation usually
becomes rebellious especially on adolescence age.

Rebellious child are sensitive in nature. Single parents must understand their
needs. Rebellious child might need more attention and care. They sometimes need
something but got difficulty achieving it.

Theories on single parenting have the purpose of educating parents to become a
role model to their children. Single parents made a mistake in the past but it
does not mean they are bad parents. Becoming a role model to children will
inspired children to finish their study become professional on their chosen
career in the someday.

Single parents should be careful on theories regarding single parenting that
they will use on their child for on these theories regarding single parenting
depend the future of their children. Single parents should never stop on
learning for the sake of their child. Single parents should give extra
nurturing and caring to their children for children of single parents have the
special needs of love and care.

How to Manage Stress and Single Parenting

Being a single parent is not easy. It is like doing two jobs in one sitting.
Single parenting requires you to be an understanding mother or a tough and a
providing father all at the same time. Stress and single parenting, therefore,
works together, giving single mom and dad a terrible headache every single day.

Stress and single parenting are the usual topics in self-help books in
parenting. Psychologists believe that raising children and even just a child is
a very stressful task that requires ample management of emotional, behavioral
and spiritual aspect of a single parent. Without the proper guide from
self-help books, counsellors, group therapy, a single parent will deteriorate
emotionally due to stress.

So how could you manage stress and single parenting?

Psychologists say that in order for a parent to manage both stress and single 
parenting, he or she should enumerate things that brings him or her the 
stressors.

The universal stressors in single parenting for a female parent is how she
could manage her household while she works her way to earn a living for 8 to 9
hours during the day. Self-help books on how to manage stress and single
parenting gives single moms a good advice.

Firstly, if their job requires them to be out of the house in the usual office
hours, she could hire a nanny during those times that she is away. But if she
wants to have a quality time with her child or children, it would be for the
best if she would leave her day job and establish a work from home business or
job.

The internet isn't there to merely entertain us. In fact, billions of dollars
worth of business deals have been transacted through the internet. Of course,
this isn't just on sales transactions -- sales on goods sold such as in Amazon
or Ebay -- but also those transactions that pay off a service using Paypal or
other online payment mode.

Yes, believe it or don't, many people, single parent or not, who earn a living
through the internet not for selling goods but for offering and selling a
service.

If you are a fast typist, you can offer typing services through
'telecommuting.' It is a secretarial job that doesn't require a single parent
to be 'on-site' or at the place where the office is located.

Some employers, especially those who are always on the go, hire 'virtual
assistant' to help them with clerical or typing or secretarial jobs. Employers
simply email the typing or research job to their virtual assistant with the
instructions on how to do it and when to submit it, and the virtual assistant
shall submit to the employer the typing and research job at the time the
employer has specified.

The virtual assistant will be paid online via Paypal or Online Checks, every
15th and 30th of the month, or as agreed by both parties.

This way you can manage both stress and single parenting. Even if your two
children are howling at each other, you can pacify them while you are waiting
for the next job that your virtual boss will give you. Working online or
telecommuting is one of the best ways that you can manage stress and single
parenting.

As for single dads, the problem that they usually face is how to keep in-tune
with his child or children's feelings and emotional needs. This is the most
usual cause of stress with a male doing the single parenting.

Of course, unlike a single mom, not all single dads want to work at home. They
feel that this is not a very manly job. To psychologists, however, single dads
doesn't have that much liberty to think this way.

Single parenting is totally different to regular parenting (a household with a
mother and a father). A single parent must adjust to the usual activities
expected of a 'regular' parent. So, a single dad must accept the fact that he
can't be just like 'any other dad' and work his bottom from sunrise till night.

A single dad needs to be at the side of his children, like a mother. If he
can't accept this fact, he cannot possibly manage stress and single parenting.

All About SPARK (Single Parents Raising Kids)

Single Parents Raising Kids or more popularly known as SPARK is an organization
of single parents based in the Montgomery County in the United States state of
Maryland. SPARK also covers other single parents in the surrounding areas.

SPARK as an organization of single parents was instituted and formed in 1987.
The founders were nine single parents who have successfully coped p with life
being single parents. The nine SPARK founders initially aimed to make SPARK an
organization or venue in helping numerous single parents to cope up and deal
with stressful single parenting issues.

Some Facts About Single Parenting and Ways To Cope

Being a single parent is no easy task. It is like doing two jobs in one
sitting. Single parenting requires you to be an understanding mother or a tough
and a providing father all at the same time.

Stress and single parenting, therefore, works together, giving single mom and
dad a terrible headache every single day.

Stress and single parenting are the usual topics in self-help books in
parenting. Psychologists believe that raising children and even just a child is
a very stressful task that requires ample management of emotional, behavioral
and spiritual aspect of a single parent.

Without the proper guide from self-help books, counsellors, group therapy, a
single parent will deteriorate emotionally due to stress.

So how could you manage stress and single parenting? Psychologists say that in
order for a parent to manage both stress and single parenting, he or she should
enumerate things that brings him or her the stressors.

Here are some facts about single parenting in the US:

- There currently are more or less 11.9 million single parents in the country 

- 84% of kids growing under a single parent live with their mothers 

- Among all racial groups, the percentage of two-parent households has been 
  drastically declining over the years 

- Around 28% of American children aged 18 years old and below live with a single 
  parent 

- 85% of custodial parents are mothers and only about 15% are fathers 

- 53.7% of custodial single parents work full time jobs, while 30% are temps 

- Around 59% of single parents in custody of their children have some sort of 
  child support agreements with the other parent 

- The average household income for custodial parents is US$28,000 

- Most single parent settings exist in metropolitan areas

If you are a single parent, you really need not fear. There are a lot ways you
can obtain support, both financially and emotionally.

The US government offers financial support for single parents who have proven
themselves unable to provide enough care for their children. The law
acknowledges that single parents face responsibilities that are much more
complicated than families with two parents, hence the provision for financial
assistance.

This way, the government takes part in reducing the pressures and hardships
single parents face every single day. Despite the absence of a partner, single
parents are not alone in the challenging task of rearing their kids. The
government is there and very much willing to help.

Internet sites like SingleParentsNetwork.com and SingleParentsMingle.com also
provide venues for single parents to meet other single parents. They provide
articles relevant to single parents' situations and fora for single parents to
discuss challenges that face them and their children.

Counseling from professionals can also form or make up a support system that
will make single parenting easier and more effective. Because single parenting
is no ordinary parenting, the parent and the child must learn to accept the
situation minus the negative feeling.

Nowadays, single parenting is becoming a normal occurrence. Society is not that
judgmental anymore towards the single parent and the child. Probably, it can be
because of the immunity due to the rising number of single parents. Anyway, it
can be positive because at least, single parents choose to be productive.

Ethnically Speaking: The Trends In Single Parenting

Ethnic studies have discovered that 90% of single parents are women, while in
1995 32% of Black families are single parent households with dependent
children. Only 8% of White families are single parent households and 7% in
South Asian families.

Around half of Black women aged 30 and above are primary income generators in
single parent households, while only one in ten among South Asian women have
this scenario. Such figures indicate the sharp difference of Black and White
single parent households.

Other ethnic studies of black and white women ages 15 and 44 found that family
disruption is a major concern in future choices of children in terms of
childbearing and marriage. An ethnic study conducted by Bumpass and McLanahan
found that the daughters of single mothers have a:

- 53% chance of being married during their teen years 

- 111% change of having teenage births 

- 164% change of having premarital births 

- 92% chance of experiencing their own marital-related problems.

The developing behavior of girls that grew up and having their father die early
also leads to different effect.

- Black children are not significantly affected if their mother is widowed
  early in life. 

- Parental family status does not have a considerable impact on whether white 
  or black girls who grew up in families would get married again after getting 
  divorced. 

- The results show that when family background traits are kept constant.

Bumpass and McLanahan arrived on the conclusion that the finding give strong
evidence that women who spend a portion of their livelihood in a single parent
environment have a bigger chance of getting married and bearing children early,
to have children out of wedlock and have major martial issues that will likely
end in divorce.

Regardless of what ethnic group you are in, being a single parent is hard.
Those coping with being a single parent normally feel the following: sadness,
abandonment, confusion, guilt, fear of being alone, and anxiety. The following
advises are crucial to help fight combat these feelings:

1) Forgive and forget -- Letting go of unwanted feelings can make one feel
happier and lighter. Holding on to anger provides more stress that letting go.
Forgetting will make more bearable for you to move on and possibly develop a
relationship, and preserving your relationship with your kids.

2) Maintain network and ties with your community -- Having honorary uncles and
aunts in the community develops camaraderie between the kid and the
neighbourhood, and the parent and the neighbourhood. It also enables children
better understand that creating relationships is an helpful way to forget the
bad feelings that they felt during the divorce of their parents.

3) A sense of accomplishment -- When a child is assigned with small tasks, a
sense of accomplishment is normally felt. Since additional responsibilities
have been given, a feeling of openness is added. This is due to the fact that a
goal has been achieved to assist in the household. This makes the child feel
that he is an integral member of the household.

4) Take responsibility -- Before, the responsibility of caring for the family
was shared between two individuals. Now, only one is tasked to provide for the
whole family. Taking responsibility gives power to a single parent to be extra
careful in making decision and managing the family. In addition, the parent can
request assistance from the children on major decisions such as what items are
essential in the grocery

5) Do not forget the old habits -- Children need stability in their lives after
a traumatic divorce. Rituals as going to dinner every Wednesday or the parent
fetching the child from school every Friday should be kept. In this way, the
child will feel that even if the parents are divorce, the good rituals are
still there.

6) Different experience for the child -- Since the child now shuttles between
two separate parents, the child can further broaden his perception on how life
should be tackled. The child is more receptive and aware to what goes around
him, and accepts that the world is not perfect.

Challenges Of Single Parenting

One of the hardest issues to survive in, as a single parent, is an overwhelming
emotion that you should complete the role of both mother and father. This
feeling evolves and will be more intense if the other single parent is not
portraying a role that is active with the children.

You would probably fight this feeling often in two ways. Either you try to
compensate by being both the mom or dad or you get on one of those wild life
hunting explorations to search for a partner to fill in the other role. May I
tell you a piece of advice? Neither one of these options will work. It is
easier to say it than to do it.

Single parents always bring this feeling of guilt for the reason that their
children do not obtain the love and care they could be getting from another
parent. So what are you supposed to do? It is a very difficult situation.

For example, you are a single father with three children. This gets even more
complicated if two out of the three are girls and you will have to choose
between being a mom or to hunt for the mom to be able to have a better
orientation for your daughters.

You would most probably go on an exploration to fill the second. Not a year has
passed and you would probably go back to being a single parent.

As mentioned, this is never the answer. The lesson on that example is that you
cannot replace the mom or the dad. Of course, this does not mean that it is
impossible to find people who are ready to be a huge portion of both yours and
your children's life. What is really meant is that this should not be the
reason of the relationship you from.

Instead of feeling that you need to replace your wife or your husband for your
kids, why don't you focus on what you need to provide or give to them? Being a
single parent is not a reason for you to feel guilty. You should rather be
proud that your sons and daughters have you.

This article is written to help you, single parents, realize that your children
love you and if you are going to find another spouse or feel guilty, you are not
going anywhere. Yo have to comprehend that single parents do not have to have a
mate to make your kids glad.

If you are a single parent, then you are probably strongly thinking that you
should fill both roles. This is empowered by the feeling of guilt for fitting
our children in difficult positions. You have to get over this and recover as
fast as you could.

You are only human; you are not a super hero. You cannot do everything by
yourself and you should never feel that you are second best just because of
this.

Your children do not all the time give a helping hand either. Children are not
evil, crazy or anything of that kind, they are just being what they are, kids.
It is what kids always do, and it turns out that it really works well for them.
You need to adapt to working with your kids with your own provisions and not
feel lower than appropriate for the reason that you cannot do something.

In total, you gain the respect of your kids if you follow what this article
just said. No matter how much and how well you try, you surely cannot be both
your children's mom and dad. So take this as an advice, quit trying.

You do not need to be fit and lean to make your kids love and appreciate you.
They love you just the way you are. You should even appreciate yourself first
in order to make your children and others appreciate you. You should know that
parenting exercise is different.

Hmmm: You are most probably thinking that being a single parent drains your
energy and will not let you have time for yourself. Well, tell you what, it
does not. It helps you become stronger and it makes you appreciate yourself
because of what you do.

Single Parents and How They Are to Maintain Their Emotional Health

The number of single parents has increased over years. The number of children
who have been a product of single parents have continually grown as well. This
is because the overall change in society has changed drastically over the past
years.

How a person reacts to certain situations, and how one copes with change have
affected decisions involving families today. Studies have shown that there are
effects, whether positive or negative on being a single parent to children.

Stress and single parenting are the usual topics in self-help books in
parenting. Psychologists believe that raising children and even just a child is
a very stressful task that requires ample management of emotional, behavioral
and spiritual aspect of a single parent. Without the proper guide from
self-help books, counsellors, group therapy, a single parent will deteriorate
emotionally due to stress.

So how could you manage stress and single parenting? Psychologists say that in
order for a parent to manage both stress and single parenting, he or she should
enumerate things that brings him or her the stressors.

The universal stressors in single parenting for a female parent is how she
could manage her household while she works her way to earn a living for 8 to 9
hours during the day. Self-help books on how to manage stress and single
parenting gives single moms a good advice.

Firstly, if their job requires them to be out of the house in the usual office
hours, she could hire a nanny during those times that she is away. But if she
wants to have a quality time with her child or children, it would be for the
best if she would leave her day job and establish a work from home business or
job.

The internet isn't there to merely entertain us. In fact, billions of dollars
worth of business deals have been transacted through the internet. Of course,
this isn't just on sales transactions -- sales on goods sold such as in Amazon
or Ebay -- but also those transactions that pay off a service using Paypal or
other online payment mode.

Yes, believe it or don't, many people, single parent or not, who earn a living
through the internet not for selling goods but for offering and selling a
service.

Some employers, especially those who are always on the go, hire 'virtual
assistant' to help them with clerical or typing or secretarial jobs. Employers
simply email the typing or research job to their virtual assistant with the
instructions on how to do it and when to submit it, and the virtual assistant
shall submit to the employer the typing and research job at the time the
employer has specified.

This way you can manage both stress and single parenting. Even if your two
children are howling at each other, you can pacify them while you are waiting
for the next job that your virtual boss will give you. Working online or
telecommuting is one of the best ways that you can manage stress and single
parenting.

As for single dads, the problem that they usually face is how to keep in-tune
with his child or children's feelings and emotional needs. This is the most
usual cause of stress with a male doing the single parenting.

Of course, unlike a single mom, not all single dads want to work at home. They
feel that this is not a very manly job. To psychologists, however, single dads
doesn't have that much liberty to think this way.

Single parenting is totally different to regular parenting (a household with a
mother and a father). A single parent must adjust to the usual activities
expected of a 'regular' parent. So, a single dad must accept the fact that he
can't be just like 'any other dad' and work his bottom from sunrise till night.

A single dad needs to be at the side of his children, like a mother. If he
can't accept this fact, he cannot possibly manage stress and single parenting.

Articles On Single Parenting Becoming Popular in Modern Days

There are many articles concerning about single parenting. Single parents need
not worry on how to handle your situation as a single parent to your children.

You may search for articles like this one through various website and even in
local magazines. For more brief and precise articles about single parenting,
you may also visit the libraries and bookstores. Reading and understanding the
articles for single parenting may give you tips and guides in handling your
day-to-day relationship with your children.

Because of the growing number of people who are becoming single parents caused
by break-up of marriage, teenage pregnancies, divorce and death of other
partner, the publication of articles on single parenting have also increases.
There is a growing demand for self-help tips in raising a child or children by
a single parent.

There are articles on single parenting that focuses on a single mom or dad who
lose a husband or a wife because of death. These articles help a widow or
widower handle grief and how to continue their life without a partner in life.

There are also articles on single parenting that teach about proper caring of
infants, toddlers and kids who are in school already. These articles cover the
basic management of kids' tantrums and their attitudes towards you as a parent
and to other people. Single parents, especially teenage single mother, will
also gain knowledge from these articles on single parenting such as basic
childcare, bathing an infant, first aid techniques..

A woman who is expecting her first baby without a partner to help her in child
rearing may also benefit from the contents of these articles on single
parenting. These articles will show her to take care of her body during and
after pregnancy.

It is also good for every single parent to start reading articles on single
parenting and child psychology so that she could raise her child morally
upright. When their child grows and starts asking questions, they must know how
to answer these questions, most especially the sensitive ones. Do not take for
granted the questioning of your child because you would not know the effect in
the event that you ignore them.

Children who are raised in a wrecked home or are the product of a teenage
pregnancy are said to be more sensitive than children who are raised in a
normal home because they feel that they are the usual topic in school and in
their community. You must help to cope up by searching on the articles on
single parenting that will solve the problem of your child. You must obtain a
regular communication with your child so that you can also monitor his
companions, his favorite things to do and problems he is encountering outside
your home.

There are articles on single parenting that you must disregard especially those
that only confuse. Remember that articles on single parenting are written by
humans only, and human are not perfect. Many authors of articles on single
parenting use their opinions as their basis of writing their articles.
Sometimes it is not informative.

To avoid waste of your money examine first the articles on single parenting
before you purchase. Articles on single parenting must be informative, specific
and goal oriented. Articles on single parenting should be informative in a way
that you can gain learning, knowledge, methods, and ideas that can help you in
your way of raising your child and becoming you as a better person.

Articles on single parenting must contain specific and more precise information
for easy understanding. Most single parents are commonly on the lower income
earner and sometimes force to stop their education to support their child.
Single parents need to feed useful articles regarding single parenting that is
understandable to apply the knowledge as possible.

Authors of articles on single parenting are advised to feature articles that
are more on a goal-oriented topic. Every single parent goal is to secure better
future for the children.

Authors may write an article on single parenting that is more inspirational in
achieving their goal. They may also discuss topics that will establish their
morals and strengthens their faith and give them strong determination in
achieving success.

For those single parents who are cutting their cost on buying things to save
for the most essential needs, they may visit public libraries near their place.
They may borrow articles on single parenting that is functional for them. Single
parents must not stop on learning for they will be their child's first teacher.

Single parents must show their child that they are interested in learning to
make them a role model and children will also become interested in studying and
reading materials. Children of young age are very willing to attend school and
learn their alphabet.

Children must gain support from the parents in also achieving the goal of their
child. Education is one of the rights of the child. Do not disappoint your
child. It is better to enhance the talents and abilities of children than make
them useful and productive.

Articles on single parenting are great help for single parents in guiding the
path of every child and make them leaders of your community.

Meeting A Lover's True Love: Dating and Meeting A Single Parent's Children

Dating and meeting a single parent's children can cause tension and nervousness
between a new couple. A lot of expectations need to be set as this is not a
conventional relationship. One person has no strings attached, while the other
person has a huge string attached -- a child.

The person dating a recently single parent needs to be open and understanding
as well. The person needs to understand that there are responsibilities
involved, such as defensive feelings from children, as well as comparisons
between the new person and the old spouse.

Dating is a combined feeling of excitement, nervousness and anticipation. Added
to meeting a single parent's children double these combined feelings for both
you and your partner. The question is, what are the "nice to knows" in dating
and meeting single parent's children?

On Dating

1) Make sure that the previous relationship has no more to do's- Studies have
shown that the feeling of being treated as a "rebound" is common when dating a
single parent. This is because these newly single parents look for partners as
soon as possible, to replace the feeling that they had with their own partners.
Being the date, a person needs to make sure that there are no more strings to be
addressed in the previous relationship of the single parent.

2) Make sure to complement your date of his looks -- Newly single parents
invest on their looks to be able to boost their confidence. They enhance their
looks by coloring their hair, trying on new make-up, experimenting on different
scents or losing excessive pounds to prepare themselves on being available in
the market again. Complimenting them on how they look will definitely boost
their confidence and make your date more open to feedback.

3) Manage expectations that you are different from the previous one-
Comparisons are the main reasons for fights between a new single parent and
his/her respective date. A newly single parent can either look for a date who
has similar characteristics, or look for a date that is entirely different from
his previous relationship. New dates need to make sure that he/she is different
from the previous one.

4) Maintain a non-sexual relationship with your date at the early stages of the
relationship. Be open to the fact that your relationship can either work or not
work. Having a sexual relationship may complicate things, most especially if
your date has a child.

On Meeting a Single Parent's Child/ren

1) Understand that there are established routines already -- When a single
parents lets you meet his/her children for the first time, make sure to
understand that there are routines already, and the child/ren see you as a
threat to these routines. Just make sure to let them feel that you will not do
anything to their routine.

An example is the weekly breakfast routine. When your partner brings you for
this routine for the first time, the children will see you as a distraction who
will soon take away their weekly routine.

2) Delay the sleep-over -- Children today are different in the way they think.
Sleeping over connotes sexual relations, even if there is none between the two
of you. Try postponing the sleep-overs when you feel that the children have
accepted you already.

3) Encourage your partner to separate dating and parent time -- Ask your
partner to separate dating and parent time. This will not compromise both of
your feelings and avoid unnecessary tension.

4) Be open to the fact that you will be introduced when your relationship has
long-term potential. -- Newly single parents will introduce you to their family
if they see that what you have can escalate to a long-term commitment. If you
are not yet introduced to his family, give it time.

These are just simple tips to help you out in the phenomenon of dating and
meeting a single parent's child/ren. These tips can go a long way in
maintaining a possible relationship between you and your partner.

Consequences of Single Parenting

There are a lot of consequences in being a single parent. It is not as easy as
everyone imagines. There are so many issues surrounding a single parent. Some
are good, but some are extremely bad. In everything that you do, there are
consequences. And because being a single parent is an abnormality, society
keeps a watchful eye on everything that you do.

You always have to watch your actions so that it will not have a deterrent
effect on your children. You also have to have an open communication with your
children so that you will always have knowledge on what is roaming inside their
mind.

Since being a single parent is vulnerable to gossips, we must always be
knowledgeable of what is happening around us so that it would not affect our
children. The biggest consequence of being a single parent is probably its
effect on the child's reputation and emotions.

In a weak foundation, the child with a single parent might notice his or her
difference with other kids. If not properly talked about, he or she might start
thinking that he or she is different and it may be a reason for him or her to be
disturbed. As a parent, you must always remind your child that he or she is not
different from others. He or she is still a normal kid, just like everybody
else.

The bulk of the responsibility is thrown mostly to the parent. And honestly, it
is really the parent's responsibility especially during the early ages of your
son and daughter. You should always remind your child about his or her status
and that it should not affect him or her as a person.

As a parent, you must really be hands-on with how you take care of your
children. It is a must that your presence is always felt. That you are always
there to guide your kid. It is important and a must that you efficiently
perform your duties and responsibilities as a parent.

Single parents must be really close to his or her child. If you concentrate
more on work and leave no time for your kids, there might be a gap on your
relationship and you and your kid will not be that close.

You should also show your love to your kids for they lack affection. Since you
are a single parent, you should give much more love as you are filling in the
shoes of both a mom and a dad.

But that is not as easy as it sounds, because you are the only one that makes
it work for you and your family. Of course, you cannot do it all by yourself.
Single parents are not super heroes but they are close to it.

Time is the biggest enemy of a single parent. And because of that, the biggest
consequence of it is having no time to spend with your kids. As a result, you
may not be close to him. Another one is because of the lack of a parent figure
inside the house when you are not around, the kids might lack the value that
parents teach.

Also, because of your absence, the children might not respect your authority as
their parent. And at times, because of work, you might be not around during
special occasions, like the kid's birthday, PTA meetings, the child's recital
and other kid of events that require the presence of a parent. Since you are
the only working with no support, you might not be able to attend to these and
may cause trouble.

A kid requires a lot of work, and if you cannot attend to your child's needs
then he or she might look out for someone else. Your child might be prone to
drugs and other bad deeds because of the lack of presence and attention inside
the house. The child might even forget that he or she still has a parent.

You must remember it is not how long you spend your time with your kids; it is
how you spend quality time with your kids. Even if you are tired from work, you
must always let them feel your love. You may not always be physically present
but what is important is that we instill in the values and discipline so that
they would be able to face the world with the parent on the child's mind.

The most important thing is that they would understand the situation and
respect you for what you are and not who you are not.

Single Parents and The Rise of Crime Rates Among Children

The hardest thing to face as a single parent are the intense emotions
associated with being both a mother and a father to a child. This is further
magnified when the other parent is absent or is deliberately not doing anything
to fulfill his part in the caring for the children. More often than not, the
single parent's psychological well being bogs down.

Single parents might try to cope with this strain by either trying to
compensate by adopting both mom and dad roles, or by scouring the social scene
for a partner to help him or her in the rearing of the child. The pressure is
definitely high.

However, if truth be told, none of the above will help. If anything, they might
even cause you to become more stressed. And when you end up being more stressed
than ever, chances are this will reflect and magnify on your child.

If you are a single parent, ask yourself. How does your behavior and general
outlook toward life affect your kid? Upon closer scrutiny, you might just find
out that your child's constant tantrums and bouts of unexplained anger might
just be the result of your continuing negativity. It is for these reasons that
you should be careful.

Several studies show that children coming from single-parent households are
more susceptible to destructive or rebellious behavior, not just because
society imposes the need for a two-parent structure, but also, more often than
not, the custodial parent is either too guilty that he or she smothers his
child, or too busy to make ends meet to show how much he or she cares.

According to one study, about 90% of the change in crime rates between 1973 and
1995 had been accounted for by children born into single-family setups and those
that had been born outside of marriage.

While this is not entirely true for all cases of that cover single parent
households, we cannot discount the fact that majority of reports conducted in
lieu of single parenthood and crime rates show that they are, indeed, linked.

Children born into two-parent, or 'intact' homes, are also susceptible to
committing crime, so it would be impulsive to generalize that all kids under
one-parent households are likely to become criminals.

Sure, two-parent settings place some sort of balance to a child's psychological
well-being. However, it should also not be discounted that kids who grew up
under an unhappy but intact home are also prone to some form of destructive
behavior.

If you are a single parent, the best thing you can do to prevent this from
happening is to be there for your child. You don't really need to be available
24-7 and spend so much just to show him or her that you care. The mere fact
that you make it clear, in the occasions that you can, that your child's
well-being is your utmost priority is enough.

Never forget to tell your child that you love him or her. Do away with
discussing the negative, especially if it's against the other parent, no matter
how distressed you are with him or her.

If you are having trouble reaching out to your kid, particularly if you're
realizing this need just now and your child is already a teen, seek
counselling. Or have a one on one talk with your child so that both of you will
understand each others feelings openly. Honesty is key in a single parent
setting. If both parent and child are honest about what they think and feel,
the less likely a rebellion would occur.

While you do feel somehow guilty for being a single parent (you may sometimes
even think it's your fault that your kid is exhibiting rebellious behavior),
you should immediately try to take it out of your system. Guilt will only
magnify the ill effects on your child and might even push him or her further
into ill behavior.

Simply put, a positive attitude will do wonders. A happy household, whether in
a two-parent or single parent setting, is still a happy household. And this is
all that is going to matter.

Dating Single Parents

I really admire single parents, with all the hardships in their life; they are
still able to endure all of it. For their children, they are able to suck up
everything that life has thrown at them.

But single parents are humans too, with emotions that people usually feel. They
also long for love and affection not only from their children but also from
other people as well. They also long for a companion who would grow old with
them. So for single parents to go on dates is not a distant reality.

First question about dating single parents is if it is right and proper for
them to go on dates. In my opinion, there is absolutely nothing wrong about it.
They are single anyway.

Plus everybody needs love and a partner in life, it is just sad if society will
dictate it for them to be lonely all their life. They also have the right to be
happy and be with somebody else who could support them in their life aside from
their children.

Raising a family is also hard if you are the only one answering and supporting
the family's needs. As the saying goes, "it takes two to tango", you will
really need a partner to help you raise your family well. Life is hard to face
when you are all alone.

Let's face it, when the kids grow up they will have their own families and
eventually move out. That is why it is perfectly of for single parents to date.
People should not think that what they are doing is immoral because they are
doing it for themselves and the children.

It is really hard for a single parent to find a partner that would easily
accept them, there past and there present situation. Some even view them as
immoral people because of certain factors. They tag single moms with immorality
because of the early pregnancy, or that they got pregnant before they got
married.

Single dads are often looked at as irresponsible men or a cheater that is why
their partners left them. But of course, there are so many outside factors that
deal with that. Those are just some of the examples how society looks at single
parents.

In reality, single parents are hardworking and responsible people that are able
to fend for their kids even if they are the only one supporting the family's
financial needs. It is just sad how they degrade them. People should not be
judged because of the mistakes they have committed in the past.

For those who would look at single parents with an open mind and get to know
them better, they would realize that these people are very responsible. They
have dealt with almost all problems they could possibly encounter and overcame
it.

Single parents would be a very great partner because they are very mature and
have different views on things. I really wish that these single parents would
date and find a mature and responsible partner to help them in forming a new,
strong and normal family.

If you are already dating a single parent, there are some issues you will have
to deal with. The biggest issue that you will encounter is dealing with his/her
children. When you are dating a single parent, it is as if you are also dating
his/her own children.

As you start to accept him or her as a person, you should already have first
accepted the fact that the person that you love is already a parent. And that
by loving him or her, you should already love the children.

Dating and having a relationship with a single parent is like a package, you
already have an instant family.

For starters, you will have to get the trust of the person you want to have a
relationship with. I guess you have to prove to him or her that you are mature,
responsible and will be loving to his or her children. Once that is done and you
are maintaining a relationship, you will have to get the trust of his or her
children.

Since your partner is a single parent, it is natural that his or her children
are not used to their parent having a partner. At first, they will be very
suspicious of your motives; they will be protective of their mom or dad.

It is believed that getting the kid's trust and getting them to like you is the
toughest part. Once you get it, you already have dealt with the problems of
dating a single parent.

SPARK as an organization

Like most other organizations, non-government organizations that is, Single
Parents Rising Kids or SPARK has a self-imposed mission of building a community
characterized by interaction among local single parents.

SPARK aims to help single parents in Maryland provide a support group system to
strengthen each other and be able to share experiences and insights on related
experiences to make each other learn from experiences and mistakes.

SPARK purposely aims to attain its mission statement by instilling active
participation among its members and planning and presenting a program of family
that is balanced. The organization also aims to give out social and educational
programs to each of its members.

As an active organization, SPARK comes out with a monthly calendar of events
that can help its members interact comfortably though informal and friendly
gatherings.

To do such, SPARK once in a while organizes concerts, movie premieres, pot-luck
dinners and other activities that would help members appreciate and interact
with each other in the most comfortable and conducive means.

The headquarters of SPARK is located at SPARK Incorporated, PO ox 288,
Rockville, Maryland 20848.

SPARK membership

It should be noted that SPARK, being a non government organization, is also and
mostly, to be emphasized clearly, not a for-profit organization. That means
SPARK exists mainly because of its advocacy roles and commitments and not
because of any other causes.

The organization, being a social interaction group, is not intended to generate
income or revenues to its founders and leaders. Instead, the compensation SPARK
gets is the great feeling it attains if it effectively provides support and
wisdom or insights to its members, which are all single parents.

SPARK is a volunteer-organization that is run and managed by volunteers.
Solicitations and contributions that make SPARK running and existing are
generated through the voluntary contribution and offer of single parent members.

SPARK is open to all single parents in Maryland and the adjoining states whose
child or children are below or under eighteen years. The child or children may
be with or without custody.

Purpose of SPARK

Single Parents Raising Kids is an organization whose purpose include giving
members great and bright ideas to resolve emotional, social and financial
problems arising from single parenthood. Thus, SPARK principally aims to
provide single parents the opportunity to:

* Participate in wholesome but fun activities with other single parents.

* Learn more and generate more knowledge about single parenthood.

* Share insights on experiences that could be beneficial other single parents.

Insights on SPARK

The modern generation of single parents are somehow very much more fortunate
than their counterparts in the past generations. Gone were the days when single
parents are ostracized and looked down by the society due to the stigma and
social burden incurred from a failing marriage or pregnancy out of wedlock.

Te single parents of today are really lucky to be able to enjoy most stuff and
support groups that help them out carry the burdensome role of having to raise
a child or children solely amid all the odds.

SPARK is one organization that could have helped many a single parent in the
decades and centuries that have passed. However, it is better late than never.
Thank God, single parents now have to get support from SPARK

Now wish that SPARK expand from Maryland to the rest of the world.

Single Parents and Dating: How To Mingle

Single parenting doesn't have to be such a drag on your social life. When your
kids are old enough to understand, you can probably start on the dating scene
once again. But, hey, it all really depends on you when you think you're ready
to begin mingling with new people once more.

If you have been avoiding some singles activities because you call them 'meat
markets', you might want to consider going with your own plan. You can take
along your own close-knit group. You can go out and just practice flirting. Or
you can enjoy an evening's worth of superficial meetings at a bar.

In short, when you have follow your own agenda, you can always enjoy mingling
with other singles whether or not you meet someone special.

Singles Activities

Almost every community has a singles scene. Whether you live in small town or a
metropolis, you're likely to find activities for singles at churches. You don't
really need to have any kind of strong religious convictions, as most of their
activities are organized around nonreligious events.

Groups likes YMHA, YMCA and YWCA also have programs for singles. You are also
likely to meet people like you in professional organizations, or writing group,
or a theatre company. To simplify things, singles, or even single parents, are
everywhere. You just have to know where and how to look for them.

Here are some alternative ways to find the singles scene in your community:

- Check local newspapers and magazines for listings of singles organizations
and groups. There is no rule against joining groups just to meet other people,
so go ahead and sign up for something that interests you.

- Try some singles bars or nightclubs. If you're a bit courageous, you can go
alone. But for starters, you might want to go in a group.

- Do things you've never done before. Develop new interests and venture into
novel activities. Who knows, you might be able to meet someone interesting at
the oddest of places.

To find out about groups in your area that share your interest, check the
listings in your local papers. Sundays and Fridays are usually packed with
information about singles events.

The larger the city, the easier it will be for your to find local resources.
But wherever you are, you are likely to find clubs and organizations that are
meant for people of wide-ranging interests. There are gourmet coulbs for
singles, supermarkets for singles, lectures and discussions centered on
singles... the possibilities and opportunities are endless!

So what are you waiting for? Get your groove and get back on the social scene.
Being a single parent is not a curse, nor should it deprive you from enjoying
life. You never know, love could be just around the corner.

Meeting Other Single Parents

If you find yourself single all of a sudden after a marriage, you may first
feel confused upon your re-entry into the dating scene. This is admittedly
uncomfortable, yes, but the good thing is you are not alone. There are a lot of
other single parents out there waiting to meet you and, probably, share another
chance at a happy family life with you.

Dating skills, like most things in this world, tend to dry up when not in use.
But with a little warming up, you will soon return to you best performance and
be enjoying the benefits of single life, particularly if the people you're
intending to meet share your interests, and, well, family backgrounds. That is,
people with kids, like yourself.

Internet sites like SingleParentsNetwork.com and SingleParentsMingle.com
provide venues for single parents to meet other single parents. They provide
articles relevant to single parents' situations and fora for single parents to
discuss challenges that face them and their children.

So if you've recently become a single parent and find yourself a little
helpless and gasping for breath, these sites will give your the support you
need. And what better way to gain information and help than getting them from
people who are experiencing the same trials and triumphs as you do!

Of course, you can never discount the fact, that you might, just MIGHT, be able
to find romance in another single parent you meet at such Web sites. But since
this is your second, or maybe third, or fourth, chance at a meaningful
relationship, as with any relationship, you still have to be discerning and
careful.

After all, your dating activities will not just affect you but your children,
as well. The effect even magnifies this time, as both you of already have kids.

When meeting a fellow single parent, be sensitive to his or her concerns and
issues. Don't think that all the ills that happened to you are exclusive to you
alone. There is a 100% chance that the other person has experienced the same, or
worse fate. Remember, both of you are single parents. There wouldn't be any huge
difference if you really think about it.

The good thing about meeting fellow single parents is that there is no need for
a good pickup line or an ice breaker. The mere fact that both of you have kids
is a good starting point for a meaningful conversation. This actually helps
lessen the pressure of having to impress the other person, because, well,
you're going through the same things, really, and don't need to kid each other
and pretend to care.

There are a lot of other single parents social sites on the Internet. A simple
Google or Yahoo! search will produce a flood of listings. If you're not too
keen on meeting people from the Internet, then getting back to the regular
dating scene shouldn't be a problem for you. Consider it a smorgasbord of
different people.

The world is your apple. Whether or not you meet fellow single parents to share
common interests or to seek romantic prospects, you should never forget that
your responsibility, first and foremost, is to your children. There is a reason
why 'parent' is attached to your name. Be one first.

Effect of Single Parenting On A Child

In today's generation, people are more liberated. And because of that, a lot of
things are going on today that was never heard of before. Say for example, the
concept of being a single parent. Single parents are scattered all over the
world, so we can't say that it is because of culture or economic status. Rich
or poor, a lot of single parents are out there.

So is being a single parent bad? Some would say that they would prefer to be a
single parent. Some would say that having a mom and a dad is still proper for a
child. Some experts have pointed out some bad traits on children with single
parents.

They say that having a single parent has certain effects on a child.

Of course, some effects are good but some are also bad. Since a lot of single
parents are dealing with their children by themselves, it is important that you
notice and discuss some good and bad effects of solo parenting.

Let us start on the good effects of being a single parent. As an effect of
being a single parent, you will be very close to your child or children. You
will be the only one they will look up to and you will have their undivided
unconditional love. You will also be the only authority they will look up to.

You will be able to have all of their respect and love, making it easy for you
to make rules and also for them to follow. In your family, there will be no
pairing up or partnership between members. Your family will be very close and
the single parent will be in full control.

Close family ties s the greatest effect a single parent can have on a child.
The child and single parent will have a very good, if not best, and a very open
relationship.

They will have a good communication line and no secrets will be kept from each
other. They will share everything with each other that will lead to a
harmonious relationship between parent and child.

So if you look at it, being a single parent will be great considering the fact
that how good your relationship would be as parent and child. But being a
single parent also has its flaws. The difference may have some not so good
effects on your child.

Of course, a normal family consists of a mother, a father and the children. In
the case of a single parent, a mother or a father is missing. Because of that,
it is no longer normal. And as you know, the society looks down on anything
that is not normal. The child might start feeling that he or she is different.
And that may have some unwanted psychological effects on the child.

One example that might bring the child's feeling down is when his or her peers
start teasing him or her for having only one parent. He or she might start
thinking that having one parent is bad and the child points out the blame to
his or her parent. The child will have a gap with the parent that will be very
hard to fill up.

Another problem that may arise as an effect of being a single parent on a child
is his or her lack of either a father figure or a mother to care for him or her.
The child might seek for someone that has never been there and it might be a
cause for the child to be hard-headed.

The child might also get jealous seeing other kids with complete parents. The
child may become disturbed because of that. The child might be looking for
complete parents in some special occasions that usually require two parents
like father's day or mother's day.

As a single parent, you have to answer all the financial needs of your family.
So that means you have to work for you to feed them. You can't really spend
much time with your children so that you can have a good life. You will really
have a hard time teaching them values because you are not always at home.

Always remember that it is not about being a single parent. It is about how you
bring up your children and the time you spend with them. And also being how
efficient you are as a parent, single or not.

Tips for Single Parents When Traveling

Single parents have a tough role balancing their time between work and home
duties as a mother and father. Sometimes single parents need to travel for
business trips or even for vacation and bonding moments with their children.

What to bring during travel trips?

It is advised for single parents traveling with an infant to pack not more than 
one suitcase. Better pack your child clothing inside your own suitcase because 
you are still carrying your baby's car seat and strollers only by yourself or 
you can accompany a nanny for convenience for every trip only.

Single parents traveling with their children should ride a train as much as
possible. Children love trains. These are the best form of travel: either you
ride a plane, train or car. Think of any activities that will capture the
interest of your child. You can bring along their favorite toys too.

Better be early when traveling especially for single parents to avoid fighting
with other passengers. Your child needs to be comfortable and being early on
your trip will make them relax.

Bring along kiddie meals, spoon and dish and small container of milk and juices
that will suit the taste of your children. They may not like the food offered on
the plane. Medicines are very important for every single parent traveling with
kids. Single parent should know all about sickness that can affect your
children during trips or better consult your pediatrician before traveling.

Best destination when traveling with kids -- Kids love adventure and they will
love you more if you will participate in their adventures. This is the chance
for single parents to travel with their kids during holidays for having fun
with them. You may frequent your trip to unwind your self for the heavy roles
you are doing as a single parent.

Single parents traveling with their kids in Disneyland, wherever Disneyland you
may bring them, it does not matter. All that matters to them is the fun and
laughter. They may enjoy themselves with the cartoon character like Mickey
Mouse and Donald Duck. There are also play areas design for toddlers and kids.

Single parents traveling with their kids but with a minimal budget can bring
their child in a zoo. Kids especially toddlers like animals. Even in
television, they imitate their sounds and behavior of animals. Treating your
kids even with a small budget will be a lot of fun.

Children also love beaches and water. Swimming gives great delight to your
kids. They love swimming and playing and building castle made by the sand. It
is important for your child to have an activity that will make them busy and
worthy on your every trip.

Problems facing by single parents during travel.

Single parents traveling with their kid usually face various problems
especially for a divorcee or separated single parents. Single parents traveling
with kids should make a habit of bringing along their legal documents whenever
you travel inside or outside the country.

Single parents traveling with kids local destination needs only less legal
documents than traveling abroad. You may contact your tour agent to check all
the requirements before traveling. Because you are only traveling on your own
country, you are probably more particular of the laws and requirements when
traveling.

Single parents traveling with their kids outside the country require a passport
for the kids and the parent itself. Many countries not only requires a passport
but still need some additional legal documentation such as death certificate if
case of death of other parent, court order of sole custody and permission or
notarized Affidavit of Consent from the other parent to prevent the other of
kidnapping their children.

For those single parents who are traveling with their kids outside the country,
they need to arrange their travel beforehand. You may call the consulate to
double check the documentation requirement of your country of destination. Try
to be friendly with the consulate of the country of destination and tell them
your situation to ensure that you will have a smooth travel. Many countries
today require a visa before entering their country in order to assist their
visitor properly. Single parents should indicate the duration of your visit,
purpose of your travel, country of origin and how you are entering the country
destination if it is either on land, sea or air.

After single parents contacted the consulate of the country, they must also
coordinate to their travel agent, airline, or cruise line where their travel
has been booked. Do not hesitate to tell them your arrangement with the
consulate of the country of your destination and your situation as a single
parent.

Single Parents Dating: It Is Time To Move On

Being a single parent is not the end of the world. It doesn't mean that you
will shut all doors closed from dating someone else. Single parents also need
to go out on a date for them to relax and unwind from their heavy role as a
mother and father. Single parents dating or going out is healthy.

Single parent dating friends.

If you think you are not ready to enter into a new relationship, dating old
time friends is an option for you. You can say to your friends things that you
cannot say to your family or relatives. Friends can also advise you if you are
spoiling your child. Friends can also be a good help whenever you need help in
your work and at home.

Single parents dating prospects.

But if you think that you are ready for another serious relationship, you can
do so but better be careful the next time around. Single parents dating again
should be more careful and cautious for the sake of their child and their self.

Single parents who wish to go out on a date may do so with help from a friend.
Better assess yourself first if you have the time to accommodate a date with
your humongous tasks at hand. Don't say yes if you haven't set your schedule
yet. Remember that you are not only a mother but also the father of your child.
You need to plan ahead of a week if you are really eager to find a date.

Single parents dating again feel the thrill and fear of trying to find love
again. But you need to know more about the person. Finding love needs time. To
avoid committing mistakes again, evaluate your date's character. You need to
make sure that your chosen partner can also provide nurturing and love to your
child. Yes, maybe he loves you but did he love your child too?

Prospects of single parents dating.

Single parents should assess their self. They should know what kind of
relationship they want. They should also talk to their child or children if
they want to have a new dad or mom. Listen to your child if they are ready to
have an addition to your family.

What to do when on a date?

To ensure that you will have a fun and safe date, make someone know where are
you going and who is your date. Let someone know what time they will expect you
home. Don't forget to bring along your mobile phone in case of emergency and for
easy access to you.

Single parents dating should avoid watching movies because you are still in
getting-to-know you stage. Watching movies needs silence while munching your
popcorn and sipping your soda. You cannot know the guy this way. His family
background, his likes and dislikes, his plans and ambitions, you wouldn't know
if you are only watching movies. It is better to date in public places if you
are dating for the first time.

When is the appropriate time for single parents to go out on a date?

Single parents dating for the second time find it hard to tell their children
especially if they are a widow or a divorcee. They need to consider the
feelings of their children. They need to ensure that their children can cope up
with this new environment.

Single parents always make a mistake by entering in a relationship so soon
after the death of the husband or a divorce because they feel alone and need
someone who can bring back their smile again. Coping from a lost loved one is a
long healing process. It is advised that widow should take two years
approximately to enter into a new relationship. For a divorced man or woman, it
is advised to entertain a suitor at least six months to one year or until all
legal matters including estate, property, insurance matters has been settled
from past relationship.

When single parents jump into a serious dating, they should be cautious with
their actions to lessen the risk of conflict with their children. Remember that
you are not the only one who had suffered loss from the past but also your
children. Just make sure before entering into a date, you are ready to handle
difficult situation like introducing you new partner to your children and what
will you do if your children resent your new partner.

Single Parents and Relationships: Self-Regulation

Single parents, whether they like or not, need to practice some sort of
restraint or self-regulation when it comes to their dating activities, as their
child could take it the wrong way and end up resenting his or her parent. Or,
worse, believe that his or her parent's impulsive dating actions are good and
acceptable.

While nobody can really pinpoint what is good or bad for a child because every
single parent set-up is unique, one thing remains the same: the child should be
given the primary protection. And that means you, as a single parent, should
learn to regulate your actions, especially those infront of your child.

Imagine when you were still single and childless. When you bring a date back to
your house, you were always concerned that somebody, your parents, might walk in
and discover the two of you necking. Now imagine if, as an actively dating
single parent, your child walks in and finds you in such. Isn't the thought
actually more alarming?

Keeping romantic relationships is not taboo with single parents. However, you
must understand that there is a certain level of restraint should be exercised,
or you could inflict some psychological harm on your child, no matter how minor
you might think it is.

And it's not just about dating. Regulation should also govern with parent to
child relationships, as most single parents make the mistake of letting their
kids call the shots because of guilt.

Remember this: there is no reason to feel guilty for your separation with your
child's other parent. While children with intact, two-parent homes have the
best of both worlds, this is not always the case. In fact, studies show that
kids in single-parent homes have a higher sense of self-esteem than those who
come from unhappy intact homes.

So, if you feel guilty for the choices you made, seek counselling. Don't act
out your guilt toward your kids. If you provide a happy home for your child and
keep your role as a single parent straight, your will for your kid as much as
any parent, or two, can ever be.

Another pitfall of single parenting is trying to please children too much.
Again, usually out of guilt. And while regulating your actions will help ensure
a smooth relationship path for you and your kids, you must also not do so at
your personal expense. Don't deprive yourself on their behalf or use them as a
smoke-screen to avoid from having to get out and face the world and continue
living.

You have a life to live. And though your kids mean the world to you and should
always be at the forefront, you must not forget to take care of yourself.

Although many single parents are seeking involvement, each of us must decide
for ourselves what kinds of relationships we can handle at this time. Thus, you
might have found that romantic attachments are not a priority right now.

If you're a single parent looking for involvement, you know how demanding such
a lifestyle can be. Knowing that you can choose to manage your children and a
signficant other at the same time gives you the freedom to explore all the
possibilities in store out there.

Available Scholarships for Single Parents To Improve their Style of Living

A family with a single parent as the head of the family is growing in numbers
every year. This is said to be caused by parental breakup and unwanted
pregnancies. Women are more affected in this situation than men because of the
tremendous task of feeding the family and nurturing them emotionally at the
same time.

Families with a single mom are commonly seen in areas wherein unemployement is
rampant. Sometimes teenage single mothers are forced to stop their education
because no one will take care of their kids and they need to earn to support
them. Most single mothers have a lower income capacity.

Because of the increasing rate of single parents, the government, state, and
various universities and colleges offers scholarship for single parents
especially female single parents who are determined to improve their earning
potential, fund for their dorm fees, tuition fees and other related educational
expenses.

The primary vision and mission of offering scholarships for single parents are
not only to improve the single head future income capacity but also to give
hope, improve their confidence and to have determination for their own good and
their children.

Scholarship for single parents usually covers the tuition fees, books and other
related educational expenses of the successful candidates. Some source of
scholarships for single parents also provided restrictions to those who want to
avail the scholarships.

Scholarship for single parent are only limited to single parents students with
least one dependent child who really needs financial help. A single parent who
get a scholarship should not marry during the terms of the scholarship grant.

Single parent students who has the support of her family (willing to take care
kids while the parents are in school), may avail of scholarships for single
parent full-time. For those single parents who cannot leave their children
easily (if they have special kids) may avail of scholarships for single parent
that offer part-time class load requirements.

Single parent students covered by scholarships for single parents are being
trained to enhance their skills on writing, interpersonal communication and
computer. Single parent students are also taught of the learning techniques for
success and career exploration.

There is also some sources of scholarships for single parents who are strict in
regards to the grade requirement. Every single parent who has been awarded of
scholarship for single parent are required a passing grade of 2.5 grade-point
averages while others require a 3.0 GPA. There are scholarships that ask for
repayment too.

Some scholarships for single parents are strict with regards to the attendance.
Single parents are advised to look for scholarships that will give them
convenience because they are playing double roles at their home.

There are many courses and programs that single parent may enroll and choose
from. Scholarships for single parents are extended to the following courses:
accounting course, business courses, computer courses, interior design, health
services and office management. A single parent who is good in numbers may
choose the accounting course.

Single parents who have the desire to continue their education but lack the
financial aid may search for scholarships for single parents online at the
websites of universities and colleges or even government websites. You may also
call or visit some colleges to check if they are offering scholarship fora
single parent like you.

Government and states are also offering scholarships for single parents. Single
parents are awarded the amount of tuition, books and dorm for two years until
they finish their graduate program.

Single parents who decide to pursue their education must explain to their
children the benefit of finishing their studies. Enlighten your children's mind
that before you achieve the success both of you must sacrifice for your time
will be divided between your studies, work and them.

There is also scholarship for single parents who are aiming to help not only
the single students but also their children. This kind of scholarship program
facilitates services for their students by taking care of the children while
the parent students are in school. This kind of scholarships are limited
depending on the funds of the donors of the scholarships.

This kind of scholarship for single parents benefited not only the single
parents but also the child itself. They send and educate their single parent
student children into pre-school and in public school. They also provide
childcare for children from 12 months through school age.

Different Scholarships For Single Parents In Kansas

Scholarships for single parents have sprouted like mushrooms throughout the
years. They have been established to lessen the burden of every single parent
from financial and emotional distress. Communities, universities and colleges
and even local governments of states are willing to join and provide hope for
single parents like the state of Kansas.

Scholarship for single parents in Kansas provided by the government are
increasing annually but it is also unfortunate to say that tuition fees of
public schools and universities in Kansas are also tremendously increasing
every year.

The remarkable growth of educational expenses is one of the burdens of single
parents in Kansas who wish to continue their studies to improve their
lifestyles. This burden is not only experienced by single parents residing in
Kansas but also in all 50 states. Finding scholarships for single parents in
Kansas are available in directories and on-line inquiry.

Single mom or dad who wishes to apply for scholarship for single parents in
Kansas must meet the requirements of sponsors. It is limited for single parents
only. They must be enrolled in an institution or school. Single mom or dad
availing the scholarship for single parents in Kansas shall maintain a
grade-point average depending upon the requirements of the sponsor.

Scholarship for single parents in Kansas can be awarded and enjoyed by anyone
even ordinary single parents residing only in Kansas. There are many options
this grant or scholarship for single parents in Kansas have that single parents
may choose so as to finish their education.

Applying a scholarship for single parents in Kansas may be done in two ways.
The easiest way of applying a scholarship for single parent in Kansas is by
completing the on-line application form provided in their websites. It is the
fastest and economical way for single parents because it does not require
traveling.

The second way of applying a scholarship for single parents in Kansas is by
securing an application form, filling-up and mailing your form to the sponsors.
Single parents who are applying for state scholarship for single parents in
Kansas may address it to the State of Kansas Student Aid Application.

Most scholarship for single parent in Kansas requires their applicant to pass
the entrance examination and should be a resident of Kansas at least year
before enrolling in a program.

Scholarships for single parents in Kansas are available in all counties in
Kansas such as Ford, Kiowa, Pratt, Kingman, Butler, Greenwood, Woodson, Allen
Bourbon, Crawford, Cherokee, Harper, Summer, Cowley, Meade, Seward, Clark and
Finney.

Scholarship for single parents in Kansas can be avail by enrolling in
Associates' Degree Programs like Accounting technology, Electronics, Graphic
design, Medical Assisting, Paralegal course, and Sales and Marketing.

Single parents have many alternatives in enhancing their abilities while
enjoying their scholarship for single parents in Kansas. Single parents may
also enroll in the university or college Diploma Programs such as Advertising,
Business, Computer Software Application, Criminal Justice and alike.

For the additional knowledge of single parents who wants to enroll in a
four-year or short-term period course or programs but also want to apply for
scholarships for single parents in Kansas, they may inquire at many Kansas
colleges and universities.

There are different types of undergraduate scholarships for single parents in
Kansas depending upon where they want to belong. State scholarships for single
parents in Kansas are scholarship awarded to needy who belong to top 20 to 40%
high school students residing in the State of Kansas.

The Nursing Service Scholarship for single parents is designed for single
parents who want to take up nursing programs in return of practicing their
program in hospitals located in the state of Kansas. Single parents who want to
enjoy this kind of scholarship for single parents must sign an agreement before
enjoying its benefit.

The Math or Science Teacher Service Scholarship for single parents is designed
for single parents who want to share their talents by teaching future students
of Kansas. This kind of scholarship also requires single parents to sign an
agreement that they must be Kansas at least two years in return of their
scholarship.

The Kansas Ethnic Minority Scholarship for single parents in Kansas is designed
for single parents in Kansas belong to an ethnic or racial group. This kind of
scholarship for single parents in Kansas must be financially incapable but
academically competitive.

Vocational scholarship for single parents in Kansas designed for single parents 
who are enrolled in vocational programs at Kansas. Single parents are required 
to take the vocational exam of sponsors.

Understanding the Psychological Well Being of Single Parents

Probably the hardest thing to face as a single parent is the intense emotion
linked with being both a mother and a father to a child. This is further
magnified when the other parent is absent or is deliberately not doing anything
to fulfill his part in the caring for the children. More often than not, the
single parent's psychological well being bogs down.

Single parents might try to cope with this strain by either trying to
compensate by adopting both mom and dad roles, or by scouring the social scene
for a partner to help him or her in the rearing of the child. The pressure is
definitely high.

However, if truth be told, none of the two methods will help. If anything, they
might even cause you to become more psychologically stressed.

Majority of single parents feel guilty for the absence of the other parent,
often blaming themselves for the loss. This is especially complicated if the
custodial parent is male and he has a daughter or three daughters, making it
difficult for him to portray motherly duties.

Chances are, he will go on wild hunting trip to look for somebody to fill the
position, which, more often than not, particularly for those who go out to just
look for a replacement parent, ends up in vain.

To cope with the other parent's absence, you must first acknowledge and admit
that nobody will ever replace your child's mom or dad. Sure, somebody nice and
appropriate could come along, but if you make this search your daily goal, then
you might as well be driving you and children to loony house. While finding
someone to fill the spot addresses a big need, this should not be your sole
purpose in life. Always remember that your children need YOU to care for them,
and do not just see you as a nanny or private eye tasked to find them a good
parent.

Instead, focus on what you can give your kids, even without a partner. Being a
single parent is not a sin. Nor is it a reason for you to go on guilt trips
every single day. You should even be proud that you have successfully reared
your kid or kids on your own, and prouder that they have you. Whether or not
you find a new spouse or partner, your children will still be happy to have you
with them.

Always keep in mind that you are only human and cannot do everything at once.
Not always being a hero to your kids does not make you less of a person.
Remember, what does not kill you will only make you stronger.

Capitalize on the relationship you currently have with your kids and improve on
that, instead of just dwelling on the fact that you're alone and don't have a
partner.

Kids today are more resilient and understanding than we give them credit for,
so never underestimate their power to understand your limitations. Be honest
about your feelings and they will be honest with theirs, as well. You could be
pleasantly surprised with their responses.

Mortgage for Single Parents: Housing Options For Single Parents

Being a single parent has a lot of responsibilities. These include food,
transportation, healthcare, insurance payments, and mortgage payments.

The government mandated child-support payments take care of majority of these,
but single parents still have to make the monthly necessary payments to pay
these items. These payments usually range from $4000 -- 6000 per year.

From combined incomes, the single parent needs to support the family through of
her income. This is exacerbated when the partner does not contribute to the
expenses. One needs to take on additional jobs to be able to address the
growing expenses of the family.

This leads to feelings of not having control over one's life and a feeling of
helplessness. Being financially independent is the biggest challenge of single
parents to date. Being debt-free is a big factor in happiness among single
parents. One of the most popular debts of single parents is the mortgage.

The mortgage of single parents has significantly increased over the past twenty
years. A recent study conducted in Britain stated the debt difference between a
home-owning single parents and single parents who rented apartments.

Findings showed that the debt of single parent homeowners are at 13% while
single parents who rented apartments was at 25%. Either way, the study shows
that single parents are struggling with mortgage payments. Several
alternatives, such as moving to a complex to lower payments or living with
other single parents have been done, however, does minimal, or no help in the
mortgage payments.

One way of securing financial independence, in terms of mortgage payments for
single parents, is having a strong income power. The single parent needs to
analyze his finances to be able to figure out what works in terms of the
mortgage payments. Sometimes, the single parent realizes that he/she needs to
take on additional jobs in order to support the mortgage payments.

In choosing the right mortgage for single parents, one needs to think about the
following, current financial standing, dynamics of changing finances, how long
one intends to keep the house, and the change of mortgage payments.

One needs to take into consideration fixed mortgage rather than yearly mortgage
and refinancing for example. The bank also reviews one's credit limit, when the
single parent applies for this.

For easier Loan approvals, iHomeMortgage.com recommends to follow the following:

Income items

- W2 forms for the last two years 
- most recent pay stubs covering a 30 day period 
- Federal tax returns (1040s) for the last two years, if: 
 
  - You are self-employed 
  - earn regular income from capital gains 
  - earn sizable interest income, etc. 
  - earn more than 25% of your income from commissions or bonuses
  - own rental property
  - you are in a career where you are unlikely to take non-reimbursed business
    expenses 

- Year to date Profit and Loss Statement (for self-employed) 
- Corporate or Partnership tax returns (if you own more than 25% of the 
  business) 
- Pension Award letter (for retired individuals) 
- Social Security Award (for those on Social Security)

Asset items

- Bank statements for the previous two months on all accounts 
- Statements for two months on all stocks, mutual funds, bonds, etc. 
- Copy of latest 401K statement 
- Explanations for any large deposits and source of those funds 
- Copy of HUD2 Settlement Statement on recent sales of homes 
- Copy of Estimated HUD1 Settlement Statement if a previous home is for sale, 
  but not yet closed 
- Gift letter (if some of the funds came as a gift from a family member

Credit Items 

- Landlord's name, address, and phone number
- Explanations for any of the following items which may appear on your credit
  report: 

   - late payments 
   - credit inquiries in the last 90 days 
   - charge-offs
   - collections 
   - judgments 
   - liens 
   - copy of bankruptcy papers

Other 

- Copy of purchase agreement 
- Documented receipts of child support FHA Loans 
- Copy of Social Security Card -Copy of Driver's License

VA Loans 

- Copy of DD214

Refinances 

- Copy of most recent monthly mortgage bill

Meeting Single Parents

If being a single parent attacked you like an ambush, then you would feel
highly uninitiated when it comes to being a single parent. You probably think
that you can just reenter the dating area as easy as you walk in your closet.

But that is not how reality dictates dating and being a single parent,
combined. You might feel more awkward than not when you decide to make a
comeback in the dating area. Contrary to what most of the people think about
dating, dating is actually not as easy as it poses itself to be.

Just so you would know, dating actually requires a certain kind of emotional
and social muscle and these muscles can definitely atrophy without use.

All you need is a little warming up and some certain exercises. Exercises like
going out, drinking coffee, strolling around the park, and stride in the areas
where you think you are most likely to meet your match. And when you do, then
consider yourself one of the luckiest people in the world.

Then afterwards you will soon be back to your days of peak dating where you
harvested you romantic benefits. Just like all of those ambitious exercise
regimens, if you concentrate yourself too much on ambivalence, low-energy and
inconsistency, then do not expect that you will attain the kind of results that
you expected.

Do you really want to have the kind of ending you desired? Then follow the
steps that this article will tell you.

First and foremost, you have to wrap up whatever it was that went on in your
past. Because if you do not, this will in turn be an unmovable obstacle to your
path to new healthy relationships. If you felt a certain longing feeling for an
ex-lover, drop it.

This is most definitely not healthy for you, not just in terms of meeting other
people to date, but it is not good for your health as well. You can get either
too fat, for eating all those junk food while moping around, or too thin
because, according to you, you do not have the will to live anymore, therefore
stop eating.

You also do not need to avenge yourself, making that guy's or that girl's life
a living hell. Just forget what has passed and move on.

Next, you must make a decision. You cannot just decide to enter a relationship
because a friend told you to do so. You are not a dummy. You were made with
your own will and intellect, so it is definitely not right when you do anything
which your friend tells you and you are not exactly comfortable with that.

You make your decisions because it is what you are comfortable with, and it
helps in your molding into a better person.

Another is that you must get your life organized.

Ask anyone; no one would date you if you cannot even tell your left sock apart
from your right sock. Dating someone will definitely not help you organize your
life, not even a little.

It might distract you from certain disasters that are knocking on your door but
will not be a solution. In fact, it might even make things worse, if things can
even get worse. What you really have to do is you have got to deal with
yourself first. Do not seek the salvation of others if you can't even help
yourself. Got that?

When meeting with single parents, it is important that you understand their
situation. You should not assume the result because first of all, you are just
a newbie in the single parent profession, so do not assume being an expert on
the topic.

Next, their situation might not always be the same as yours, so if you give
them the wrong kind of advice, it might make their problem worse.

And most importantly, you must not treat them like they are different from us.
We must always keep in mind that they are still normal people with a different
situation. We should also start a good conversation so that they would be
comfortable with you.

You will have to remember that you should not get things complicated by asking
about their past and putting them into awkward situations that might put the
person in a spot.

He/she would definitely want to be out of there because of the uncomfortable
feeling. Always remember that you do not the control of what he/she thinks and
must bear at all times.

How Many Single Parents Are Enrolled In College?

To date, experts estimate that there are two out of ten college students,
regardless of gender, that are single parents by choice or by chance.

The estimate looks not alarming, but the thing is that experts believe and
assert that the number of single parents in college are constantly and rapidly
rising. With the advent of rising and more popular liberated principles adopted
by the modern generation, single parenthood is not a taboo anymore.

In the United States alone, it is estimated that more and more single parents
are emerging and the number is consistently rising as time goes by. Single
parenthood is becoming a popular life style among adults.

What is more concerning is the obvious and logical fact that because teen age
pregnancies and unwanted pregnancies are occurring in the country, the young
people are bugged and burdened by the single parenthood.

The alarming situation has prompted the rise and proliferation of single
parenthood issues not just in the United States but in the whole world.

There are more and more single parents enrolled in college nowadays. Single
parents enrolled in college are becoming a concern for parents, people and the
government moreover.

Single parents and the challenges

For single parents enrolled in college, the situation s really a cause for
alarm. That is because college life is generally not an easy life. With the
time constraints and the issues arising from academic performance and
requirements, college students who are also single parents are subjected to
many and different forms of pressure.

For one, the pressure brought about by the society on single parents enrolled
in college are pressuring above all. Single parenting in those situations is
becoming more of a burden or some sort of punishment.

Society view single parents as uncaring and wild spirited individuals who do
not intend or care to designate before finally giving in to the pleasure of
sex. With the popularity and drive against pregnancies and STDs through
contraceptives, it is logical to assert that single parents in college were not
adequately oriented to the benefits of responsible sex.

Thus, single parents in college are perceived by colleagues and classmates as
promiscuous and sex-starved individuals. It is a stigma not unique to single
parents enrolled in college. Single parents in general strive to prove people
wrong about the notion.

It is the first and basic dilemma among single parents enrolled in college.

Time management

Time management is another area where single parents enrolled n college are
striving at. Because class schedules conflict with the time single parents
should be allotting to their children this becomes a problematic area of
concern.

It is very difficult to balance academic life and single parenthood together.
For college students, time management is already a problem. What more if they
are enrolled college students and at the same time, single parents. Time for
single parents are already burdensome. To say the least.

Exams are making crams out of college students. Exams coinciding with say,
regular physician check ups for the child, is a hell, for example.

Financial constraints

Financial constraints is one area where most single parents enrolled in college
are striving and finding difficulty at. College requires more money for books,
tuition fees and other expenses. Balancing finances between college needs and
single parenting is very hard and pressuring.

This is how most single parents enrolled in college fail at. Thus, statistics
have it that there is a significant rising number of single parents enrolled in
college that resort to filing an adoption.

Single parents enrolled in college are somehow forced to find surrogate or
adoptive parents for their child, parents who can give out all the comforts and
necessities needed by a growing child.

There are government aids and financial support that are extended to single
parents. However, most single parents in college can not take that either
because of non awareness, or because they cold not qualify to be eligible for
such government financial support.

The Advantages of Home Buying Programs For Single Parents

Several shops and groceries stores are now offering home buying programs for
single parents. Single parents may not need to go to stores and shop
personally. All they have to do is avail the home buying programs for single
parent. Home buying programs for single parents covers shopping through
website. You can shop online with a discounted rate and goods are delivered in
front of your doors.

Saving energy and time means a lot to single parents. Their saved time and
energy may be used to other useful things or chores. Single moms and dads are
very thankful with these home buying programs for single parents, which afford
them more time to monitor their kids' activity.

To avail one of the ome buying programs for single parents, a mom or a dad must
apply for membership. They may register at various shopping malls, websites,
groceries, drugstores, bookstores, bakeshops or hardware stores.

The home buying programs for single parents are not only available at product
oriented establishment but also at service oriented establishments. Service
oriented establishments include barbershop, hair salon, massage and spa, health
care and dental care.

Home buying programs for single parents offer products at discounted rates
while others offer a 'buy one take one' scheme. Some establishments also offer
surplus products in good quality conditions.

Service oriented establishments normally offer rebates or discounts. Sometimes
they even offer free services for single parents. They even offer home rewards
based on the consumables.

Home buying programs for single parents also offers home rewards wherein a mom
or a dad can earn points for every shopping or services that they availed.
Earning points in home buying programs for single parents have a corresponding
product or item.

Home buying programs for single parents also offers free delivery. Members of
home buying programs for single parents may place their orders via internet and
through phone. Customers who purchased through home buying programs for single
parents don't need to pick-up the goods. All they have to do is wait for the
items to be delivered at their doorsteps.

Some establishment requires certain distance to deliver the goods to their
local customers. Customers living outside the delivery perimeter do not have to
worry. The establishment offers delivery charges that every single parents will
surely can afford.

Establishments also benefit greatly with their home buying program for single
parents. The program minimizes and controls the number of people purchasing in
the store, which in effect lessens the number of personnel. Home buying program
for single parents also decreases the tension felt by the crews in dealing
customers not to mention the advantage that they give to single parents.

Establishment offering home buying programs for single parents sprouted like
mushrooms through years because of the advantages it caters to the single
parents.

Single parents who come home straight from the office do not have much energy
to carry heavy load of shopping items. It is very clear and understandable that
single parents also need to rest and recharge their energy. Some single parents
are not well informed about home buying programs to save on energy and cut the
cost of their expenses.

Single parents who are in doubt of availing the home buying programs due to
lack of information may simply call the desired establishment they wish to
register for home buying programs for single parents and ask for their
assistance.

Single parents should not take for granted the home buying programs even others
are requiring for membership with payments in a lower amount. There are other
establishments that are offering home buying programs for single parents with
lifetime membership. Just think of the advantages of home buying programs for
single parents that will bring to the life of single parents. The quality time,
quality product and reserve energy that single parents will enjoy because of the
home buying programs for single parents.

Single parents nowadays are very blessed because of modern technology they are
now enjoying. These are one of the benefits of modernization. Computers and
telephones are considers as necessity especially for single parents. Because of
computers, establishments can create strategies and techniques to that can give
convenience to people like the home buying programs for single parents.

Grants For Single Parents

Single parents are growing in number throughout the country and all over the
world. In fact, with the rising trend toward woman empowerment, more females
are opting to raise kids on their own than getting married (but that's a
different story).

Despite the absence of a partner, single parents are not alone in the
challenging task of rearing their kids. The government is there and very much
willing to help.

The US government offers financial support for single parents who have proven
themselves unable to provide enough care for their children. The law
acknowledges that single parents face responsibilities that are much more
complicated than families with two parents, hence the provision for financial
assistance. This way, the government takes part in reducing the pressures and
hardships single parents face every single day.

All single parents qualify for government assistance, particularly those who
are in dire need of financial help. To apply for aid, the single parent must
first secure and fill up a form from the city hall. Information sought on the
forms should be honestly and completely filled out because these will determine
his or her eligibility for the assistance being offered.

Yes, while all single parents are eligible for government help, there still are
certain guidelines that need to be fulfilled to protect the fund from
unscrupulous people. Also, keep in mind that financial assistance will only be
given to those single parents who truly need them, and not to those who earn
hefty salaries.

Single parents that may avail of government financial help are those that have
been divorced, or if the other parent is either handicapped, seriously injured,
or deceased.

In addition, it also applies to those single-parent families where the other
parent has abandoned them for about a year. The time frame is given, because,
under law, it is only until then that abandonment can be officially and legally
claimed.

If the other parent is imprisoned, the custodial parent may also apply for
government support. It can also cover those whose children had been born out of
marriage, or if the other parent has not been identified.

The following single parent situations will exclude the applicant from
obtaining government sponsored financial assistance:

- if the child is being supported by the single parent's partner 

- if the single parents is already receiving pensions for his or her disability 
  or for other reasons 

- if the child is being cared for by foster parents 

- if the child is waiting to claim an inheritance from one or both of his or 
  her parents

However, even if the governement offers assistance, single parents should not
simply rely on these to care for their kids. As a single parent, you must be
responsible and resilient enough to seek ways to finance your and your child's
well being without having to apply for help. Go get a job, who cares if it's
temporary? The important thing is you're exercising all the effort and energy
to provide the best you can for your child.

Government Grants For Single Parents

The US government offers financial support for single parents who have proven
themselves unable to provide enough care for their children. The law
acknowledges that single parents face responsibilities that are much more
complicated than families with two parents, hence the provision for financial
assistance. This way, the government takes part in reducing the pressures and
hardships single parents face every single day.

Single parents are growing in number throughout the country and all over the
world. In fact, with the rising trend toward woman empowerment, more females
are opting to raise kids on their own than getting married (but that's a
different story).

Despite the absence of a partner, single parents are not alone in the
challenging task of rearing their kids. The government is there and very much
willing to help.

All single parents qualify for government assistance, particularly those who
are in dire need of financial help. To apply for aid, the single parent must
first secure and fill up a form from the city hall. Information sought on the
forms should be honestly and completely filled out because these will determine
his or her eligibility for the assistance being offered.

Yes, while all single parents are eligible for government help, there still are
certain guidelines that need to be fulfilled to protect the fund from
unscrupulous people. Also, keep in mind that financial assistance will only be
given to those single parents who truly need them, and not to those who earn
hefty salaries.

Single parents that may avail of government financial help are those that have
been divorced, or if the other parent is either handicapped, seriously injured,
or deceased.

If the other parent is imprisoned, the custodial parent may also apply for
government support. It can also cover those whose children had been born out of
marriage, or if the other parent has not been identified.

In addition, it also applies to those single-parent families where the other
parent has abandoned them for about a year. The time frame is given, because,
under law, it is only until then that abandonment can be officially and legally
claimed.

Here are some of the grants offered for single parents:

- state child care subsidies 

- low income home energy assistance program (LIHEAP) 

- women, infant & children's program (WIC) 

- temporary assistance to needy families (TANF)

The following single parent situations will exclude the applicant from
obtaining government sponsored financial assistance:

- if the child is being supported by the single parent's partner 

- if the single parents is already receiving pensions for his or her 
  disability or for other reasons 

- if the child is being cared for by foster parents 

- if the child is waiting to claim an inheritance from one or both of his or 
  her parents

However, even if the governement offers assistance, single parents should not
simply rely on these to care for their kids. As a single parent, you must be
responsible and resilient enough to seek ways to finance your and your child's
well being without having to apply for help. Go get a job, who cares if it's
temporary? The important thing is you're exercising all the effort and energy
to provide the best you can for your child.

Government Aids for Single Parents in the US

He number of single parents is rapidly increasing and growing not just in the
United States, but also in other countries.

Raising a child or children alone and solely is never an easy and comfortable
task. That is why single parenting is a very hard and ardent job and
responsibility that only the strong willed, courageous and responsible people
chose or opt to take

If given the chance, according to one social poll, majority of the population
in the United States would not resort to being a single parent. Single
parenthood, therefore, is a choice, not a random destiny given to anyone.

Financial assistance for single parents

Financial support is given by the government to any single parent who obviously
and direly need financial support. The law recognizes the hard and very imposing
responsibility single parents have, that is why financial aids are given to
single parents. In that way, the hardships and pressures experienced by single
parents are somehow reduced and alleviated.

Government grants for single parents are accessible to the general public,
especially the needy single parents.

To process an application if a single parent seeks financial or money support
for single parenting, he or she must obtain a form from the local or nearest
City Hall. The forms should be honestly and clearly filled out because the
information will have to be verified and will form the basis for approving the
financial aid application.

For single parents, be advised that while financial aids for single parents are
available and open to every single parent in the land, qualifications and
eligibilities do exist and are set to protect the funds from abusive and money
greedy people.

Take note that financial aids will not be given to single parents whose
salaries and compensation is very huge and more than enough to comfortably and
even luxuriously support the child or children.

Eligibility

To qualify for the financial assistance provided by the government to single
parents, the single parent, above all must be first and foremost divorced.
Another case for eligibility for financial assistance is when the other
significant parent, mom or dad, is already dead, or is seriously injured,
disabled or handicapped.

Experts and the government assumes that during those cases, parent support to
the child in terms of the financial aspect is almost too impossible and
hopeless. Thus, the government intervene and provides the financial parenting
or providing role.

Another case for eligibility for single parenthood financial assistance is when
the other parent has abandoned the child for about or more than a year already.
It is because during the said span of time, or time frame, can it be rightly
asserted and assumed that there exists abandonment.

Imprisonment of the other parent can also be grounds or causes for financial
support. Or if the child has been born while the parents are not legally tied
or married, in other words, the child is born obviously and apparently out of
wedlock.

Another desperate case is when the other parent is not identified, which is a
case rapidly rising nowadays.

Children and single parents with the following situations, take note, are not
eligible for filing or seeking financial assistance or support from the
government.

- The child is a rightful heir for any property or pension due to the single
  parent or both parents.

- The single parent receives or attains additional disability pension funds
  either because of his disability or because he has children.

- The child is under the custody of foster parents or he or she is under the
  custody of a daycare center.

- If the child is currently raised and supported by the single parent's
  domestic or current partner. Partners bounded by common-law marriages are
  covered by this provision.

- The single parent is also eligible to receive or be granted public pension
  benefits.

Financial aids may be provided to the single parents. In turn, single parents
must first and foremost realize that single parenting not only involves the
financial aspect but above all, the caring and emotional support only they can
give is far more great, noble and essential than the financial assistance
extended to single parents by the government.

Government Assistance For Single Parents

Being a single parent is a tough job. Imagine you should be a mom and a dad all
at the same time. This means that you will be nurturer as well as a provider.
Tough, isn't it? But don't you worry. There are government assistance for
single parents to help you do these two arduous parenting jobs.

If you are a mom, being a nurturer comes naturally. There poses a problem if
you are a dad. There are government assistance for single parents to help a
father develop his 'maternal' skills. There are support groups available that
will guide single parents on the basics of child rearing.

There are also available government assistance for single parents who are
jobless. Single moms, particularly have a problem with this. Their being a
mother always comes first and oftentimes lose their jobs in the process. When
they are employed, they lose focus with their jobs and thus becomes perennialy
late and absent to tend to a sick child or attend a parent-teacher meeting in
school.

There are government assistance for single parents with this kind of problem.
All a single mom should do is go to the nearest local goverment office and ask
for a job that aptly fits a single mother. Yes, there are jobs that are 'single
parents' friendly. The local government collate all the businesses within the
county that has 'special considerations' for single parents.

If any of these 'single parents friendly' companies hire you, don't ever think
that you have the liberty to be absent whenever you want to. Of course, your
being absent or late should have a valid reason. Otherwise, you will also end
up fired for abuse of confidence.

Aside from these, there are still lots of government assistance for
single parents. This includes montly stipend if you are jobless which you can
apply at your nearest local office. Within a specified time, of course, you
should have found a job.

The local government will assist you in finding a job. In a month or so, if you
seek for government assistance for single parents, you will undoubtedly find a
job that suits your needs and understands your special situation.

Also there is a government assistance for single parents who want to go back to
school or enrol to college. State universities and private colleges offer
scholarships for single parents. You could ask your local government office
about this.

They have a list of schools that offer such scholarship. Aside from the
scholarship, you may also get or be awarded a montly stipend to finance your
daily school work needs and some for your household. This is of course while
you are at school. The moment you finish school, the issuance of monthly
stipend will be stopped.

Why is the federal government doing all these assistance for single parents?
The Federal Government values the sanctity and importance of a family. Today,
being a family doesn't mean a household must have a father and mother before it
will be called as such. As long as there is a single parent who is maintaining
the happiness and peace in a household, that home deserves to be called a
family.

So, in order for single parents to give a bright future to their child or
children the federal government extends assitance to single parents. They help
single parents reach their dreams for their children, feed them properly, bring
them to school for education, and nurture their emotional and spiritual needs to
be a good person and citizen when they grow up.

Some single parents are hesitant or even stubborn to seek for assistance being
offered by the local government. Don't be. Do not deny your children of what
they deserve just because you are too stubborn to admit that you need help.

Besides, the help that you will get from the local government comes from our
taxes, and your taxes that you have paid and paying too, taxes that all of us
citizens have religiously paid with our efforts and sweat. By seeking help, you
are merely reaping what you funded in the Federal Government's tax fund.

Government's Financial Help for Single Parents

It is good to note that governments around the world are now recognizing the
value and nobility of single parenting.

Single parenting is basically a courageous choice and decision that one without
enough courage and bravery is ready to deal with. Experts noted that single
parents, almost all of them, had been given the choice or option whether they
would get on with the life or not. But they still decided to take on the role
against all odds.

Single parents could have killed the child during pregnancy through abortion,
but they had he greater guts and conscience not to do that, which is really
commendable.

The Catholic Church and Rome is advising its people and believers to avoid or
prevent the occasions of sins that could lead to single parenthood. But once a
person becomes a single parent, the Church is all out on its moral and
spiritual support.

If given the chance, according to one social poll, majority of the population
in the United States would not resort to being a single parent. Single
parenthood, therefore, is a choice, not a random destiny given to anyone.

Financial help for single parents

Financial help or aid is given by the government to any single parent who
obviously and direly need financial support. The law recognizes the very hard
and very imposing responsibility single parents assume and take, that is why
financial help is extended to single parents.

In that way, the hardships and pressures experienced by single parents are
purposely and somehow reduced and alleviated, if not totally eliminated. The
morale of the single parent in continually raising the child is also boosted.

Seeking financial help

For single parents seeking financial help or support from the government, here
are ways and procedures on how to finally secure that much needed financial
help or support. To process an application if a single parent seeks financial
or money help or support for single parenting, he or she must obtain a form
freely available from the local or nearest City Hall.

The application for financial help forms should be honestly and clearly filled
out because the information will have to be verified and will form the basis
for approving the financial aid application. No more padding or unnecessary
tarnishing of information. Remember, the more honest you become, the better
would be the outcome.

Be advised that while financial help and aid for single parents are available
and open to every single parent in the land, qualifications and eligibilities
do exist and are set to protect the funds from abusive and money greedy people.
Not all single parents are qualified for that, but believe it or not, the
provisions are really bright and necessary.

Take note that financial help and money aids for single parents will not be
given to single parents whose salaries and compensation is very huge and more
than enough to comfortably and even luxuriously support the child or children.
That would be too unfair to those who are basically and already deprived of
basic and comfortable living.

Who are eligible for financial help?

To qualify for the financial help or assistance provided by the government to
single parents, the single parent, above all must be first and foremost
divorced.

Another case for eligibility for financial assistance is when the other
significant parent, mom or dad, is already dead, or is seriously injured,
disabled or handicapped.

Other eligibility requirements basically require the financial help applicant
to prove that the financial help or support is really and badly needed by the
single parent and the child.

A single parent is very much qualified for financial help if his or her partner
is imprisoned regardless of the case that made him or her partially incapable to
provide finances and full financial support to the child.

Or if the child has been born while the parents are not legally tied or
married, in other words, the child is born obviously and apparently out of
wedlock.

Financial Assistance for Single Parents

Single parents are becoming too popular and widely accepted a concept nowadays.
Gone were the days when single parents are left solely and alone to raise their
child or children alone.

The Federal Government and all legitimate governments around thew world are now
recognizing the increasing and growing trend of single parenting.

Single parents, as you might have noticed, are everywhere. The lady sitting
beside you in the bus ride home or the sales lady attending to your needs in
the grocery might probably be among those single moms that are struggling hard
to make both ends meet and raise their child or children single handedly.

Governments are mandated and are expected to care for and give protection to
their constituents. Governments do protect their people, and that protection
given should never be discriminative.

Thus, single parents should be given equal rights as those who are normal
parents or those single individuals.

That is why governments from around the world are following the United States
government model for compensating or providing financial assistance to single
parents.

The government program that supports or gives financial aid to children and
single parents are being adopted and closely watched by all governments all
over the world now.

It is always assumed that since single parents take the sole responsibilities
of single parenting in raising children, they are financially crunched and
striving. The times are really hard nowadays, and earning to raise children can
get really tough especially since the society is not so kind to single parents.

Financial assistance given to single parents

In the United States, financial support or assistance to single parents. The
government effort is really a major feat. However, not all single parents are
fully fitted and eligible for the program.

To be able to attain or receive financial support or aid from the government,
single parents should be found positive of fit for the following requirements.

Children of single parents will be subsidized or given financial assistance by
the government until they reach 18 years. However, the child's situation is
subject to thorough probing.

First, the single parent must be first and foremost divorced. Another case for
eligibility for financial assistance is when the other significant parent is
already dead, or is seriously injured, handicapped or disabled.

It is assumed that during those cases, parent support to the child is almost
too impossible and hopeless. Thus, the government intervene and provides the
financial parenting or providing role.

Another case for eligibility for single parenthood financial assistance is when
the other parent has abandoned the child for about or more than a year already.
It is because during the span can it be rightly asserted and assumed that there
exists abandonment.

Imprisonment of the other parent can also be grounds or causes for financial
support. Or if the child has been born while the parents are not legally tied
or married, in other words, the child is born obviously and apparently out of
wedlock.

Another desperate case is when the other parent is not identified, which is a
case rapidly rising nowadays.

Children and single parents with the following situations, take note, are not
eligible for filing or seeking financial assistance or support from the
government.

* The child is a rightful heir for any property or pension due to the single
  parent or both parents.

* The single parent receives or attains additional disability pension funds
  either because of his disability or because he has children.

* The child is under the custody of foster parents or he or she is under the
  custody of a daycare center.

* If the child is currently raised and supported by the single parent's
  domestic or current partner. Partners bounded by common-law marriages are
  covered by this provision.

* The single parent is also eligible to receive or be granted public pension
  benefits.

Thus, filing for financial assistance or support among single parents would not
be that easy. Be reminded that such stringent requirements are established to
avoid fraud and anomalous activities by bad people who will take on or abuse
single parenthood to illegally attain benefits and funds.

Financial Aid for Single Parents

You would probably think that as a single parent, you could do what has to be
done all on your own. You feel that you have what it takes to be a good single
parent.

Hopefully, you are not one of those who assume that they are in the lineage of
super heroes, handling every weight on their shoulders. You would get yourself
busy on all sides with the different activities that can show your kids that
you, as a new family, can handle it on your own.

But has it ever occurred to you that it might not be all about your 
relationship with your kids? Yes it is primarily about that, but can you do so
without financial help?

Financial complications usually come up when households of single parents try
to have college education covered. This is where you realize that you need aid
after all, financial aid.

There are certain policies in having financial aid determined for single
parents, like you if ever you are one, that are deemed to be highly confusing
at times. This article would gladly give you an overview of the process.

In case you do not know, the custodial parent is the one with whom the child,
specifically a student, has lived the most in the span of the twelve months
that have already passed.

If the student admits that he or she did not live with a certain parent more
than the other parent, then his or her parent who has provided msot of the
financial support in the past twelve months will be the one to fill out the
fafsa.

Another situation would be if the student got to live with each of his or her
parents with the equal amount of time and also if the parents provided an equal
level of assistance, in terms of finances, then the parent who will claim the
student for purposes of income tax should be the one to do the filling out of
the fafsa.

You must never forget that any child support or any alimony that has been
received from a non-custodial parent must alwas be included on the fafsa.

It might be a bit too late to say this, since this article has been mentioning
it for quite some time now. Fafsa actually is an acronym for free application
for federal student aid. Now you know, so you can stop creasing your forehead
in wonder everytime you read the acronym fafsa.

The federal government does not put the income or the assets of a non-custodial
parent to consideration, especially when the student's financial need is being
determined.

Just in case you do not know, many private colleges take into account the
assets and income of the non-custodial parent, even if he or she does not want
to be included in contributing to college costs.

These said colleges would ask for a supplemental financial aid form from a
non-custodial parent. This said financial aid form does a whole lot in
affecting the awarding of the aid of the school, however, it is neither federal
nor state.

Still, there are special cases wherein a number of private collges will waive
the requirements for non-custodial information. There is, however, a criterion
that has to be met so that a certain single parent household will not be
automatically qualified for a waiver.

First, the non-custodial parent should not be found nor located. So this would
only make it eventual that that certain parent has not made any form of child
support payment recently, and it is also an indication that that parent has not
been consistent in his or her child support payments.

Next, if the separation or the divorce has happened in tha past of the past,
which means it was really a long time ago, then it is highly reasonable to
expect a provision from that non-custodial parent.

And lastly, if the said non-custodial parent has a history of neglect or of
abuse either with the child or with the other parent.

Court records will be used for documentation for the said criteria. Hopefully,
it is now clear to you that the criteria must be documented first so that there
will be a waiver for the information regarding the non-custodial parent.

Black Single Parents: Seek Help And You Shall Receive

If before single parents were being scorned in public and were regarded as
immorals, this attitude has, fortunately, been reversed in our days. Single or
divorced parents are treated equally and are in fact being given special
considerations by the Federal Government because of the hardships that single
parents are facing in order to properly raise a child or children.

This special considerations are not only for 'white' Americans. Black single
parents, just like any other citizens of the United States, may avail of the
special programs that the Federal Government has for American single parents.

In Arkansas, black single parents may enrol for a scholarship program. They may
attend college for free, while they receive a monthly stipend to help their way
in school. In Arkansas, they believe that if black single parents are educated,
or any other American single parents for that matter, their child or children
will grow up a better person and citizen.

Everything starts from a family; and in Arkansas, they think that not only a
household with a mother or a father can be properly called a family. Even a
family being headed by a black single parent can create a happy, successful and
peaceful family.

Black single parents who are currently jobless may get assistance from the
local government for job placement. The local government will locate a job near
the residence of the applicant so as for him or her to manage his or her
household while he or she is earning for a living.

In fact, while a black single parent is in the process of job hunting, the
local government may assist him or her with the monthly expenses that his or
her household may accrue, until such a time he or she finds a job.

Local governments may suggest to black single parents, especially females, to
work home based so that they can have more quality time with their child or
children. It is now a fact that the internet is not just a medium where a black
single parent may meet a new date. Everyone, especially those who has the will
to do so, may earn decently through the internet.

Top online shopping marts on the net today rake if not millions, billions of
dollar as profit. Black single parents can partake too with the yearly billion
dollars of marketing and for profit transactions in the internet. They can sell
their own goods via net, and they can offer too their services via net.

They can work as a virtual secretary, content writer, forum posters (yes, they
can be paid for that), or marketing or ad clickers. There are various
legitimate jobs on the internet. All they have to do is scout via net for a
telecommuting job and check their registration at the Securities and Exchange
Commission if they really are a legitimate online business.

For household management, black single parents may find group therapy sessions
designed for single parents helpful. Group therapy sessions are not only for
the disturbed; these help groups are created with the help of the local
government to assist white and black single parents in household management.

Even before problems arise, this help groups are there to teach white and black
single parents on how to maintain harmony in his or her household and how to be
both a mom and a dad to their child or children.

So, of course, when problems arise, these help group will support white and
black single parents all the way. They will serve as a shoulder to lean on for
white and black single parents who are not with any person to confide their
problems with. Besides, sharing ones problems with a co-single parent is the
same as sharing ones problems to a friend who understands.

White and black single parents must not pass the opportunities that the local
government has in store for them. They can't stubbornly claim that they can
raise their child or children on their own. They must accept the help that the
local government has extended for them. These help are for the betterment of
their household and should not be passed up simply for pride.

Articles On The Effects Of Single Parents And Black Males

Single parents are everywhere. The US Census found that in 2002, three out of
ten children in the United States were raised and are living in with single
parents.

It is believed that the figure has further gone up nowadays. Today, it is
estimated that single parents, or the number of single parents in the society,
are far more, or have significantly grown over the years.

The assumption can be attributed to the growing perception that single parents
are now enjoying the comfort and acceptance by the society that previously were
not accorded or provided to them.

Black males are a significant demographic section where the number of cases of
single parenthood is significantly and rapidly increasing.

Experts say black males being single parents at the same time pose greater
challenge to the person. For one, racial or color discrimination, although the
issue is not existing politically anymore, is still bugging a number of African
Americans in the country.

Second challenge for the single parents who are black males is their gender. It
is found that male single parenting are far lagging behind female single
parenting. Although feminism is now on the run, and men and women have equal
right, men still are not comfortable to assume domesticated roles in the
society.

That is why a number of efforts are initiated by experts and psychologists. To
reach the black male- single parents demographic, articles, books and expert
advise on single parenting are provided and made accessible over the Internet.

Hence, there are a number of literature or articles that are accessible online
and that are targeting the black male single parents around. Here are some of
them:

'Parent Trapped: Dating for Single Parents'. This article is authored by an
unnamed single parent. He himself is very much involved in the issue, based on
his status.

Thus, it takes one to really and effectively know one. The single parent
reader, probably and purposely male black, can relate to the predicaments, joys
and experiences of the author. This will be a great reading experience for them.

'The Bad Rap Against Mothers'. The article is published in a well-know and main
steam magazine years ago but is so beautifully written that the essence is far
living its life span. The article is written by a single mom, who was abandoned
by a black male lover or partner.

'The Bad Rap Against Mothers, Part 2' is the second installment or spin off of
the first. The article aims to help readers by enumerating and analyzing the
hardships and difficult situations single parenthood poses to single moms. In
this article, the single mom-author imagines how it could have been if she had
been the one to leave his black male ex-partner.

'The Bad Rap Against Mothers, Part 2' also aims to create the next generation
of very 'exceptional men' who will grow up gracefully with manners and
principles that will never ever aim to hit or disrespect women and other
beings. The author believes single parents can do exactly that -- raising good
and well-founded men.

'Come Back Home' is excerpted from the very popular and best-selling 'Chicken
Soup for the Single Parent's Soul: Stories of Hope, Healing and Humor'. The
article incites that every single parent has his or her own different and
personal story to tell.

However, the differences are bounded and should be unified by the thread of
comfort and of hope that aims to give out peace of mind to everyone.

'Get More Time with your Children and Manage Your Child Support' is written
basically and particularly for black males who are also single parents. The
article can also apply and touch the hearts of white males who are also single
parents.

Through the article, readers will have a sneak peek at the personal and actual
expenses and money issues surrounding male single parents, both black and white.

'Dreaming Through the Twilight' is somehow mushy and cheesy as the title
implies. However, the article, which is also published in a book -- a collection
of personal diary-style articles -- is so profoundly written. The article targets
principally the black male single parents who are difficultly dealing with their
current single parenthood situations.

Single Parenting and Black Males

Single parenting is becoming a fast-growing trend in modern societies, not just
in the developed countries around the world but also in the third world or to
term it the more politically correct word, developing countries.

Times have really changed since those days when single parents were treated as
outcasts of the society. Previously, especially during those times and era when
values and morals were strictly imposed within societies, single parents were
treated as if their situations were some sort of punishment to them.

Single parenthood is not unique to the average white men and women in the
United States. It can be noted that the black race or the so-called African
Americans in the country are also subject to the issue and concerns regarding
single parenthood.

Thus, the number of black males who are also single parents in the country and
also in other nations are currently the same and equal to the number of white
males who are single parents.

The borders and difference separating the black race from the white have really
disappeared and melted that issue previously concerning whites are now also
issues hounding the blacks.

Thus black male single parents are now living on an era when single parents are
treated with much respect and dignity than the way they were treated by he
previous generations.

Black males and the single parenting

Single parenting is also not unique to the average black males. The US Census
of 2002 estimates that three in every ten children in the United States are
raised by single parents. What is so vague about the statistics is that the
demographics were not clearly defined, meaning the actual number of black males
who are also single parents are not really identified or set out.

It is assumed, however, that the number of single parents who are incidentally
also black males rise along with those of white males, or of female
counterparts.

It can be noted, however, that the modern society is knowledgeable and informed
about safe sex and contraceptives. But, there are instances when contraceptives
don not really work as intended, and so the number of unwanted pregnancies and
unwanted birth of children are rapidly rising.

Black males who are also single parents do experience the same experiences and
issues being reported and experienced by other single parents around the world.

Black males who are also single parents are also now equally privileged as
their other counterparts. They are also qualified for compensations and
financial assistance and support from the federal government.

Articles about single parents and black males

There are a number of literature or writings that tackle the issue of single
parenting particularly and specifically for the black males. It is assumed that
male single parenting is very hard because males, in general, are not
domesticated.

The traditional and conventional norms of the society have it that males are
not really completely coping up with the challenges of single parenthood.
Psychologists do assert that male single parents are far worse compared to
their female counterparts, because females are more emotionally stabled to cope
with the single parenthood situation.

Here are some of the recommended reading digests that black males who are also
single parents could read. The following articles are so timely and will surely
be helpful to the black males who are also single parents.

The articles are accessible online, for everyone to read them. Read on.

" Black Men: the Crisis Continues" by Slaim Muwakkil. The article came out and
was published in one of the modern magazines. The article touches on the
political issues hounding the black population, particularly the black males.

'The Blak Family: 40 Years of Lies" by Kay S. Hymowitz. The magazine article
discusses the social implications of single parenting among black males and in
the general the whole black race.

"Parent Trapped: Dating for Single Parents" is an article available online that
tackles the issue of single parents finally moving on with life to experience
dating once again. Issues bugging black males regarding single parenting are
discussed.

Effective Vacation Tours For Single Parents

Single parents sometimes feel helpless and lonely because of the heavy
responsibilities that they shoulder such as family expenses not to mention to
responsibilities in caring for their children. Single parents who think they
are getting drowned on their responsibility may take vacation tour as a break
from never ending duties.

Vacation tours for single parents are good to refresh the mind and body from
the workload they are encountering everyday. Vacation tours may also be good
for the children to get the full attention of their parents. Children sometimes
feel neglected because of the busy schedule from work of parents. Children are
given limited time and sometimes leave them in the care of other people.

Vacation tours for single parents can bridge the gap of single parents to their
children. During vacation tours, single parents may get along well with their
child. No phone calls from the boss, no meetings to attend and no interruptions
can take place between them.

Because of the growth rate of people becoming a single parent, most travel
agencies offer vacation tour for single parents accompanied by their children.

There are also travel agencies designed only for vacation tour for single
parents or adults traveling alone with their kids. They arrange their trips
either by land, air or sea. They also help single parents to comply all the
requirements needed for the vacation tours for single parents.

Single parents who wish to have vacation tours with their kids may plan ahead
of time. Planning a vacation tours for single parents with their kids going
abroad, need more time of preparing rather than planning for vacation tours for
single parents locally.

Preparing vacation tours for single parents who are going outside the country
must prepare at least 2 months before their date of departure. Single parents
are required to apply for a visa before entering other countries. There are
countries that requires foreigner to secure a visa but there are also countries
that do not need to be able to enter into their country.

Taking vacation tours for single parents in local destination needs only
shorter time of preparation. Being a resident of your country, you are more
particular on your countries law and order. You can easily accomplish the
requirements need for your vacation tours.

To check all the requirements of your country of destination, better visit the
website of the corresponding country you wish. You may also call their
consulate and you may tell them that you wish to go on vacation tour with your
children. You may also tell them your situation being a single parent going on
a vacation tour.

Single parents may also contact a travel agency that offers not only vacation
tours for single parents but also caters assistance in securing all the
requirements needed for your vacation. It will save your time and energy of
every single parent. Remember that single parents double their time for the
family and work as well.

Travel agencies who offer vacation tours for single parents are expected to be
more considerate and patient in dealing with their clients, given the single
parents hard situation. They should understand the sentiments of every single
parent who feels he or she is losing time for herself and her children.

How employers can help single parents in their situation?

Many companies nowadays are able to construct a program for their single parent
employees like vacation tours for single parents. Vacation tours for single
parents are awarded to the single parent employees for the good job they have
done in helping their company in achieving success.

Other companies may do the same program of vacation tours for single parents to
make them more productive and aggressive with their work. They will realize
their companies are not only interested with the work they are rendering but
that the companies are also concern with their situation.

Vacation tours for single parents is a good opportunity for single parents who
want to show more beautiful places to their kids without spending their own
money. If all companies will have a vacation tours for single parents, every
single parents will not take granted this kind of opportunity.

Singles Grand Rapids, the Meeting Place for Single Parents in Michigan

Gone were the days when single parents are treated meanly and differently by
the society. Today, single parents are treated the way any other married or
single men and women are treated---with utmost respect and dignity.

Single parents currently are not burdened with the usual dilemma and assumption
that the society looks at them further down compared to their single
counterparts.

Children or a child out of wedlock, were or was previously viewed by the
society as liabilities or some sort of punishment for the single parent's lack
of conviction, right judgment, or worse, promiscuity.

Single parents are often viewed, in the pervious and ancient era, as outcasts
that inflicted the curse upon themselves through their promiscuous and wild
nature. Women or single moms had been the most discriminated among all single
parents.

Single parents in Michigan

Michigan is on state in the United States where single parents are fairly given
the equal chance to go on with life despite the emotional and physical baggage
brought about by single parenthood.

In Michigan, single parents can move freely and without discrimination just
like how normal and average people move around and enjoy life. Thus, single
parents in Michigan are free spirited and are welcome to party, enjoy and date
around.

There are especially designated places in Michigan where single parents meet
up. There seems to a formal organization, yet it is unformally founded, in
Michigan for single parents.

There are party clubs, restaurants and places or park spots where single
parents in Michigan occasionally meet and converge n a form of somehow a
support group for each other. Single parenting can really be tough, that is why
single parents must be given a break to enjoy and simmer life.

The Singles Grand Rapids

Single Grand Rapids is a social networking Web site located and based in
Michigan. The online site manly covers happenings, meeting places, social
groups, personal ads and much much more events, involving single parents
specifically located and based in Michigan.

Single Grand Rapids is a virtual place, just like Friendster.com, where single
parents in Michigan can virtually connect with each other, compare notes or
organize their own group events or trysts.

Single parents in Michigan use Single Grand Rapids as a venue to hook up, for
dating, meeting and simply hanging out in the state. Single Grand Rapids has
thus become the most popular social networking Web site within Michigan.

Single Grand Rapids truly has evolved to become the common venue for dating and
hooking up among single parents in Michigan.

Features of the Single Grand Rapids in Michigan

Jus like any other Internet site accessible and available to anyone in the
Internet nowadays, Single Grand Rapids is characterized by numerous features
hat set it apart and outstanding from the rest.

There are several special features and value added services integrated within
the Single Grand Rapids Web site that may particularly suit and lure single
parents' interests.

For one, and as a start, Single Grand Rapids in Michigan has the special
service called the 'Grand Rapids Singles---Meeting Places' where single parents
in Michigan set out venues and dates for their occasional and regular trysts,
convention, hanging out or meeting.

The Web site is also featuring its so-called 'Grand Rapids Singles---Personals'
where single parents in Michigan connect with each other personally, through
buttons or sections that categorize preferences. Under this section, there is
the female seeking male, female seeing female, male seeking female and male
seeking male subsections. Everyone is so much covered.

There is also the controversial 'Grand Rapids Single Parent' where single
parents meet up and hook up. Special modes of communications are also provided
by the feature, specifically for the single parents in Michigan.

Indeed, single parents in Michigan are never left up and left behind. Just like
any other people, they are now not treated like mutants and outcasts. There are
more hook ups and dates going on around involving single parents. Just open
your eyes, and maybe you will find that you might be dating a single parent
currently.

Be open-minded and open about the possibility.

Doing It The Right Way: Single Parents In Harrisburg PA

Sydney Styles was an incoming college senior living in Harrisburg PA when she
applied to become an intern in a local publishing group specializing in kiddie
magazines. The flexible environment of the company encourage her to work hard
despite only being an intern, as she hoped her bosses will be impressed and
possibly consider her for a permanent position once she gets out of college.

While in her third week in the company, she met Rob who worked at the stacking
department. Rob was a happy-go-lucky type of person that only dreamt of
becoming the supervisor of the division. After a company party Sydney was too
tired to driver her car due to having too many drinks. Rob volunteered to drive
her home and Sydney obliged. Intoxication and slight physical attraction came
into play and they eventually made the rest of the night more interesting.

Sydney finished her practicum work after a few weeks but during this period she
also discovered that this might have also marked a new start in her life. While
working in the machine shop, Rob was critically hurt in an accident. Rob lapsed
into a coma in the ensuing days and eventually died, as he developed a major
staph infection that triggered a deadly infection.

Sydney never knew what happened to Rob, as she went back to Harrisburg PA.
Sydney realized one morning that the "one night stand" happened not only
resulted to a good time but also unwanted pregnancy.

Sydney was forced to stop schooling despite the fact that she only needed to
complete a few more semesters. Sydney realized the fate of many college kids in
the US, as she became a single parent at the age 19.

Statistics in the last two decades show that the number of single parents has
sharply increased. One of the main drivers of the increase is that society has
drastically changed over the past years.

A person's attitude to certain situation and how he copes with life changing
incidents have become less and less rational. Sydney was unprepared to cope
with reality of being a single parent, as she decided to drop out.

Losing a partner in life is very problematic for a single parent. Those living
in Harrisburg PA have shows strong self esteem given that they live in the
state's capital. Government support is also an option, as it provided financial
assistance to single parents that are struggling to cope with everyday expenses.

Being a single parent in Harrisburg PA or in any community is not an impossible
task. Here are some tips to help you cope with the situation and eventually move
on with life.

1) Gradual decreasing of tension- before becoming a single parent, tension is
evident and felt by the parents and children. Normally, both parents do not
understand the feelings of the child.

When a certain situation is explained to a kid, this can result in a feeling of
understanding strengthen ties between child and parent. This practice can help
the child adjust with the situation, and slowly but surely alleviate tension
towards the child's parents, and to other people.

2) Increased time- Tension is normally felt during the time parents discuss
divorce. Children and the parent normally feel tension from screaming and not
talking to each other.

Being a single parent gives more time to solve the needs of children, and open
communication lines between the two. Planning outings and bonding activities
should be given a premium. More time would result in a more conducive family
atmosphere.

3) Unique experience for the child -- Since the child now travels between two
separate parents, the child can broaden his perception on how life should be
approached . The child is more receptive and aware to what goes around his/her
life, and accepts that the world does not owe him anything.

4) Decision making responsibilities -- Children can do an active role in the
decision making process of single parents. Single parents need additional input
especially in making major decisions.

5) A sense of accomplishment -- When a child is assigned with small tasks, a
sense of accomplishment is normally felt. Since additional responsibilities
have been given, a feeling of openness is added. This is due to the fact that a
goal has been achieved to assist in the household. This makes the child feel
that he is an integral member of the household.

Psychological Well Being of Single Parents In South Africa

Being a single parent in South Africa is already considered as a statistic.
This is because of the high number of this rate versus combined parenthood.
Ironically, the reason for single parenthood is very different from their
Western counterparts.

In Western countries, typical reasons for single parenthood range from divorce,
death of a spouse or a personal choice. In South Africa, the main reason of
single parenthood is AIDS.

AIDS is rapidly killing people aged, 19-45 in South Africa. These ages are the
potential parents of future generations.

According to Professor Clifford Odimgegwu, Professor of the University of
Witwatersrand in Southern Africa, the grandparents are currently taking care of
the orphans from parents who have died of this disease.

The AIDS epidemic has become alarming, and has already disrupted two layers of
the population pyramid. This pyramid consists of those in the five-year old age
bracket who will eventually be the adults in the future generations.

More than 10 million children in South Africa have been dying of AIDS. The
other part of the pyramid is the 19-45 age bracket, who will comprise the
senior citizens of the region.
(http://www.voanews.com/english/archive/2006-03/2006-03-08-voa65.cfm).

Losing a partner is very stressful for the parent. The psychological well being
of single parents in South Africa has been very poor primarily because of the
reason on why the partner was lost. The reputation of AIDS in progressive
countries have mellowed considerably.

In South Africa, however, it is still in the same ranks as the deadly illnesses
of the olden times, as the Black Plague or the Bubonic Plague because of its
sheer number.

The government has been very helpful in helping parents cope with the loss of a
parent, whether through AIDS or through divorce. Divorce also ranks as a high
factor in single parenthood. In South Africa, 50% of married couples end in
divorce. These individuals become single parents. South African individuals
have not developed coping skills on becoming a single parent.

They need assistance in coping with this event. The FAMSA is an organization in
South Africa which helps out in counseling of individuals regardless of
financial status. These organization is a beneficial tool of the South African
government in managing the way of thinking of these individuals in coping with
problems, particularly single parenthood.

Newly single parents develop feelings of sadness, abandonment, confusion,
guilt, fear of being alone, and anxiety. The following tips have been
recommended to be able to combat these feelings:

1) Forgive and forget -- Letting go of unnecessary feelings can make one feel
lighter, and happier. Holding on to anger is more stressful than letting it go.
Forgetting will make it easier to move on to the next relationship, and
maintaining the current relationship with your children.

2) Maintain network and relationships within the community -- Having honorary
aunts and uncles within the community fosters camaraderie between the child and
the neighborhood, and the parent and the neighborhood as well. It also helps
children understand that building relationships is an effective way to let go
of the bad feelings that they felt during the separation of their parents.

3) Take responsibility -- Before, the responsibility of caring for the family
was shared between two individuals. Now, only one is responsible for the entire
family. Taking responsibility empowers a single parent to be more careful in
decision making and managing the household. In addition, the parent can ask
help from the children on decision making such as what items to buy during
grocery shopping.

4) Do not forget the old rituals that you used to do -- Children need
consistency in their lives after seeing their parents separate. Rituals as
going out for dinner every Wednesday or the parent picking up the child from
school every Friday should be maintained. In this way, the child feels that
even if the parents are separated, the rituals are still there.

The psychological well being of single parents in South Africa are alarming,
but slowly increasing towards the positive. The government, through FAMSA, has
been a tremendous help in making sure that single parents are helped.

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