Being a single parent is some challenging work especially because you have to work even harder with your teenager and at your job. You have to ensure that you are putting in twice the effort so that they can have a decent life. Bear in mind, you can seek the help of friends and a teen life coach too but the first responsibility in shaping them up should be you. Here are 5 tips to help you navigate the ever-changing challenges of being a single parent:

Remember You Are Still A Family

Regardless of the circumstances your family is still a family – even if it does not have two parents. Many single parent families are emotionally healthy. It is a matter of choice, not luck.

They choose to make their families emotionally healthy, fun and one that is filled with positive memories. Think about the ideals that you want your family to be known for, and write them down. Perhaps make a door hanger or craft that contains symbols of these ideals to remind you of them.

Talk With Your Teen About Feelings

A well known fact is that teens have different emotions at the time of their growth. Allow your son/daughter to talk to about how they are feeling. This will also help the relationship you have with them. If you are concerned about your teenager’s adjustment to the divorce, then I suggest you find a qualified professional counselor to help your teenager.

Look for teachable moments. Those special times when you know your teen is really listening to you, and is engaged, and take advantage of it. Teachable moments are a rarity, so seize the moment. Find a qualified professional counselor for your teenager to talk with to help adjust to the divorce.

Stay Involved

As best you can, continue to be involved in their lives. Always show them through your lifestyle that you will love them despite what they have done.

Attend school functions. Find those things you both have to do anyways throughout the week and do them together. Eat meals together. Go for a morning or evening walk together.

Teach Responsibility

Teenagers are usually begging parents to give them their independence. One of the best ways to teach responsibility is to give them chores to do around the home. Address chores not as something you are nagging them to do, but an opportunity for your teenager to show he/she is responsible to handle more independence.