Single Parents: Making Friends
How can I connect with other single moms?
Parenting is the toughest job in the world. Single parents enjoy many special benefits of parenting, but without a partner, the challenges can feel overwhelming. Seeking out support, friendship and comfort is critical to successful single parenting. Here are a few things to consider:
You've already started. Visiting ParentsConnect.com for information on single parenting is a terrific beginning! Many "choice moms" (mothers who have chosen to be single parents) have already taken advantage of online support groups and message boards as part of their extensive planning efforts. On the other hand, many divorced/separated single moms experience single motherhood as a crisis rather than the joyful result of careful planning. Reaching out to other divorced/separated single moms online can be an effective way to cope with this crisis, especially in those lonely hours when the isolation and fear feel particularly intense.
Reach out. Human beings are social creatures with strong needs to be with others. A no-hassle way to begin is to simply post a notice at the pediatrician's office or day-care center stating that you are seeking other single moms who might be interested in getting together. Try meeting at the local coffeehouse or another public place until everyone feels comfortable enough to get together at home.
Just be you. It is important to take the time to do the things that feed your soul. This "you time" might include activities like yoga, a cooking class or a book club. These activities are also opportunities to meet other single moms. Be sure to mention your single mom status to new people you meet, particularly since you are interested in meeting other single moms.
You've already started. Visiting ParentsConnect.com for information on single parenting is a terrific beginning! Many "choice moms" (mothers who have chosen to be single parents) have already taken advantage of online support groups and message boards as part of their extensive planning efforts. On the other hand, many divorced/separated single moms experience single motherhood as a crisis rather than the joyful result of careful planning. Reaching out to other divorced/separated single moms online can be an effective way to cope with this crisis, especially in those lonely hours when the isolation and fear feel particularly intense.
Reach out. Human beings are social creatures with strong needs to be with others. A no-hassle way to begin is to simply post a notice at the pediatrician's office or day-care center stating that you are seeking other single moms who might be interested in getting together. Try meeting at the local coffeehouse or another public place until everyone feels comfortable enough to get together at home.
Just be you. It is important to take the time to do the things that feed your soul. This "you time" might include activities like yoga, a cooking class or a book club. These activities are also opportunities to meet other single moms. Be sure to mention your single mom status to new people you meet, particularly since you are interested in meeting other single moms.
Answered by
Dr. Leah Klungness
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