3 Tips to Make Your Transition Into Single Parenthood Easier

 Posted on December 17, 2019 in Life After Divorce

The “standard” for American families has changed over the years. Even just 20 years ago, the “normal” U.S. family consisted of a mother, a father, and one or two children. Now, families come in all sizes and configurations. According to data from the Pew Research Center, an estimated 18 million U.S. children are living with a single parent. Being a parent can be difficult even when you have another partner, but being a single parent is especially challenging. Here are a few tips you can use to help ease yourself into single parenthood after a divorce:

Get Your Finances in Order

It is no secret that raising a child comes with a rather large price tag. Most married parents have two incomes at their disposal to help pay for some of the expenses associated with raising a child, but after a divorce, you may only have your own income to rely on. This is when child support is typically awarded to ensure that the parent with the greatest share of parenting time will be able to provide for children's daily needs. In some cases, spousal support may also be awarded. It can also help to create a budget for you and your child so you can plan what your monthly expenses will be and relieve some of the worries.

Develop a Routine

Having a routine is a must when it comes to raising children, whether you are a single parent or not. Children thrive off of routine, because it helps them know what to expect on any given day, and it also sets the expectations that you have of them. Developing a set schedule for things such as homework, bedtime, and morning time can help take some of the stress off of your plate.

Do Not Be Afraid to Ask for Help

They say it takes a village to raise a child, and that is especially true when it comes to being a single parent. Being a parent means you are devoting nearly every minute of every day to your children (especially when they are young), but even the best parents need a break from parenting from time to time. Form a support network with family and friends that you can trust and rely on for help when you need it.

Contact an Aurora Divorce Attorney

Getting a divorce is likely one of the most stressful events of your entire life. You may be unsure about being a single parent and how you will make it work, but that is where a knowledgeable and compassionate Kane County child support lawyer can help. At the Law Office of Matthew M. Williams, P.C., we have the knowledge you need to make informed decisions during your divorce so you can be a happy and successful single parent. We can help you get your financial affairs in order, and we can also help you secure child support payments and spousal maintenance, if appropriate. Call our office today at 630-409-8184 to schedule a consultation.

Sources:

https://www.pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2018/04/27/about-one-third-of-u-s-children-are-living-with-an-unmarried-parent/

https://familydoctor.org/being-a-single-parent/

https://www.thedailypositive.com/10-ways-balance-life-single-parent/