Raising children as a single mother invariably means no late nights out with friends or even no trips to the grocery store on your own.
The harsh reality of always being surrounded by little ones that need your care is rather overwhelming. Single mothers do need support systems and that’s why you need to establish one really soon.
No one else is going to be able to create the support system you need, to help you get through this stage in your life. Your kids will thank you for taking the time to create a support system, so you all can live a healthier and happier life.
First Step
Start networking, so that you can create a positive support system for you and your kids. Unfortunately, not all support systems come in pretty little packages. Sometimes you have to get out and talk to people who potenionaly can become your support system. The first step in finding a support system is actually trying to really understand where you live. Are you next to a college that houses potential babysitters for your kids? Make a list of places from where you can start to draw resources.
Second Step
Get involved in activities so you can begin meeting new people. A support system is not just someone you can go to whenever you need a helping hand. A support system can be a friend you meet for coffee or someone you can simply call up over the phone to just talk. Lots of things are going to be happening in your life as a single mother, and you will need someone to talk to along the way.
Third Step
Creativity is your friend when it comes to a positive support system. Think about starting a co-op or even starting your own childcare center. The more thought you put into this process of a support system; the more you are going to get out of it. Get involved in activities that both you and your children can enjoy. Not only do you need a support system, but so do they!
Other Tips for Creating a Support System
The biggest tip in creating a support system for your little family is to realize that you cannot do this alone. You will be the major person taking care of your children, but you also need a break once in a while. You need someone to call up when things get a little hard and that’s what a support system will help you with. Of course, it’s vital to make decisions and make yourself feel empowered because you are doing an amazing thing, raising children on your own.
Keep yourself in check and never be afraid to step out of the box. If someone is willing to step in and help, then it’s okay to let them. There is no need to limit the amount of support you receive because it’s always good to have a buffer which acts as a cushion.