When parents divorce, there are many transitions the family goes through. One that can impact you the most is the transition to being a single parent.
While North Carolina parents establish a custody arrangement and your ex-spouse might still be a co-parent, you become a single parent in your home. Time with your children is always a blessing, but there is no doubt that transitioning into single parenthood can be stressful.
Here are three helpful tips to consider as you go through this transition.
1. Establish routines early on
As we have discussed in previous blog posts, children thrive when they have a routine. It reduces uncertainty and anxiety if children know what to expect in their daily lives.
However, routines can be good for you too. If you have a routine to rely on as a newly single parent, the daily tasks and events can feel much less overwhelming and chaotic. Take a close look at your schedule and your children’s to outline routines that will work best for you.
2. Do not overlook self-care
As the saying goes, “You cannot pour from an empty cup.” Your days might be full, with both work and parenting. However, it is critical to find time for yourself each day to rest and recharge. This is critical so you can:
- Protect your mental health
- Effectively manage your stress
- Be fully present with your children
It can be challenging to carve out this time for yourself as a parent – much more as a single parent. However, as Cleveland Clinic notes, self-care can be as simple as a quick walk outside or taking a moment to just breathe deeply.
3. Have confidence
Becoming a single parent is not only stressful – it can even be scary at times. You may worry about how you will manage as the sole parental figure during your parenting time. However, you know your abilities and you know your children.
Of course, you will have to consult your co-parent for major parenting decisions according to your parenting plan. Even so, you should trust yourself and work to be the best parent you can be.