Parenting

Parenting

Finding support as a lone parent

You could:

• Consider asking relatives and friends for help when you need a time out, babysitting, or school runs
• Take turns watching one another’s children by suggesting a “swap” arrangement
• Have a trusted relative or friend babysit for you one evening a week
• Your friends and family members may be willing to let your child stay overnight now and then

Co-parenting when you live apart

You may be angry and hurt if you were hoping to raise your child as a couple.

But as a lone parent, it’s important to hide those feelings from your child and let them build a relationship with the other parent.

Even if you start a new relationship, it’s usually best for your children to see both parents regularly. However, this does not apply if your ex-partner is violent or abusive toward you or your child.

You may find that your child misbehaves at first after returning home from a visit. One of the ways they may show you their confusion or upset is by playing up.

The best way to deal with access visits is to be calm and reassuring in most cases. Eventually, your child will start looking forward to visits and coming home.

Almost certainly, you will have to express your feelings. Try talking to another adult.