Single Parenting and Independence in Children

Let's discuss single parenting and independence in children. For those who have no children this may seem to be trivial.

But anyone with a two year old knows very well children assert their independence at a very early age and this assertion continues until they leave the nest. So how do we deal with this?

The toddler years are fabulous. Their explosion in autonomy is amazing. The child goes from a helpless infant to a self assertive "I'll do it my self" and "NO!" vocabulary.

Their actions try to support their demands for independence. So as a single parent how do we handle this. You should at every chance possible allow them to do it themselves. There are ways to have them get dressed easily.

Shoes and sneakers with Velcro are so much easier than laces that tie. They can use one of those practice getting dressed dolls and books for lacing and tying. Let them do it themselves with Velcro.

Another way to help them is to show them how to get their coat on without help. Put the coat on the floor, so that the opening is facing toward the ceiling. Have the child stand at the end of the coat where the collar is.

Then have them put their arms into the sleeves and flip the coat up and over their head. All you have to do is tell them – ant me to show you a trick? You will have their attention. This will do wonders for them and for you.

Leaving the house will become easier if they do the shoes and jackets. Single mothers parenting and daughters are a unique combination. Mothers and daughters will always have a special relationship.

If you want your daughter to become independent, then do not get into a competitive mode with her as she get older. Do not try to look like her sister instead of her mother.

You won't fool her friends and you'll embarrass both of you in other social situations. Single parenting and independence in children can meet head on when your daughter reaches her pre teen and teenage years.

There is nothing on this planet moodier than a 13 year old girl, except more than one 13 year old girl. Understand that a lot of this moodiness is hormone driven. They are dealing with major body changes and a huge hormonal imbalance.

Until everything sorts itself out, be very understanding to the fact that she is extremely sensitive about how she looks. A zit really is the end of the world to her. Nothing you can say will change that.

However, you can help her understand that her life should not revolve around how she looks. Let her know that you understand where she is coming from and that you are there to help and to talk to if needed.

If she can see you as an ally (not necessarily a friend, at times you must be a parent) you will have done more to help her be independent than you can know. Teens need and want independence with rules.

Now that you know how single parenting and independence in children can go hand in hand, remember the next time your toddler screams "NO – I'll do it myself" is just what you want from them even if it not right at that particular moment.

References:
http://www.single-parentingfamilies.com

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