Being a single parent is hard work. Not only does one have to support a household, but there is also expense.
You may be raising kids in a single-parent household but that doesn’t mean you have to go it alone. Here are a few problems and ideas for solving them.
- Maintaining a Work-Life Balance
As a single parent, you know how important your paycheck is. While some companies allow for more flexibility, others may demand a set schedule. Recognizing what will be accepted at your company and the behavior that will cost you a promotion gives you the framework for creating a support system to keep your child safe while you’re at your desk. - Weekday child care may include a day care center. Many parents find themselves trying to fill the gap between the end of the school day and the workday. Do your best to maintain a set routine for the work week, so your child knows what to expect and can count on a solid, comforting routine that includes homework time for them and time together with you, even if it’s only for a bedtime story.
- Getting Personal Time
Single parents tend to be helicopter parents because we feel guilty. We tend to take care of everything, to make up for our family structure, rather than finding balance. - Between caring for the kids, house and job, this type of behavior will have you burnt out without a second to yourself during the busy work week with no time left to recharge. You need a break, even if it’s only for 15 minutes a day. If your child is old enough to understand, let them know your body needs a rest. Soak in a tub or read quietly while they do their homework or play in another room. If they’re still very small, carve out some quiet weeknight moments for yourself after they’re asleep.
- Paying for Child Care Omaha, Nebraska
It’s no secret that child care can become pricey over time and, if you’re living off of one paycheck, the costs are more draining. Your child’s safety must always be your first concern, so skimping on quality child care isn’t an option. - You may be worried about overstaying your welcome and asking for help from family and friends too often. If that is the case, create a quid pro quo arrangement with the people in your life, so you are lending them a hand as well as enjoying their support.
- Traveling for Business
Even if your job does not include the need for frequent travel, professional conferences or staff retreats may come up, requiring overnight stays. Having a plan in place can help to alleviate both you and your child’s anxiety.If the trip is during the week, try to arrange for overnight care in your own home so your child’s routine isn’t disrupted. If you have a family member who can stay with your child, this can be a great bonding opportunity. Another option is to arrange a sleepover for your child at a classmate’s home, offering reciprocal child care at another time. - Dealing with Emergencies
Even the most thought out plans can throw you a curve ball. We have all received the call that a child is sick and needs to be picked up from school right away.
Schedule a time to speak with your HR department or boss about the possibility situations may crop up which require you to make a speedy exit. Let them know your job is important and ask if this will affect your standing at work. Make suggestions for systems you can put in place ahead of time so your workload doesn’t suffer and your boss feels taken care of, too. It’s also a good idea to have the phone numbers of several people on hand that can pick your child up in case of an emergency. Make sure the school has their names on file so there are no wrinkles at the door.
We want to hear from you. Set up an appointment today and see how much your children will love Premier Academy!
Premier Academy Child Enrichment Center offers childcare in Omaha, Nebraska for infants, toddlers, preschool, and pre-k children.
