Skip to content
ns-logo
VRS Button Small

For Canada Video Relay Service
Use: 1-866-770-7763

  • Français
  • 811.novascotia.ca
  • Search Health Topics
  • Careers
  • Other Resources
  • Feedback Process
  • Contact Us

Being a Single Parent

If you are having any symptoms or have any questions, please call 811 to speak with a registered nurse 24 hours a day.

Before having children, most people may picture a family with two parents. However, for many people, the reality is that they are the only parent. Although raising a child as a single parent can be challenging, it can also be rewarding. The following are some tips to help you deal with the challenges of being a single parent and create a positive environment for your child.

Finding Help 

You may be a single parent, but you are probably not alone. If you have family members or friends who are willing to help, let them. If you don’t have family members or friends who can help you, look for a support group for single parents. You’ll meet other people who are in similar situations. Participating in a support group gives you a chance to share your feelings and get advice.

Balancing a Busy Life

The life of a single parent can be very busy. In addition to parenting and taking care of your home, you may be working and/or going to school. It’s important to find a way to balance all of the parts of your life. The following are some tips:

  • Accept help. If friends and family offer their help, take it! This can mean having someone play with your child while you run errands or having someone to call when you need to talk.
  • Take advantage of local resources. Many communities offer play groups, after-school activities and parenting classes. These can give you and your child a chance to have fun, learn and make new friends.
  • If you don’t get enough time with your child, look for creative solutions. For example, find out if your job lets you work flexible hours.
  • Don’t forget to have fun. Take a break from your busy routine to plan something special for you and your child. For example, take a trip to the zoo or go out for ice cream together.
  • Make time for yourself. You need to relax once in a while too! This can be as simple as taking 15 minutes to look at a magazine after your child goes to bed.

Providing Role Models

Children benefit from good role models (adults who set an example of how to behave) of both sexes. Look for family members or friends of the opposite sex to be role models for your child. Invite a positive and responsible family member or friend to spend time with your child. If you don’t have a family member or friend available, groups like Big Brothers Big Sisters can help. Check your phone book or look online for programs in your area.

When You’re Overwhelmed

Parenting is hard work. All parents have times when they get angry or frustrated. But don’t take out your feelings on your child. If you are worried that you might hurt your child, get help right away.

Written by familydoctor.org editorial staff.

Revised/Updated: 11-01-2010

Created: 07-01-2005

This handout provides a general overview on this topic and may not apply to everyone. To find out if this handout applies to you and to get more information on this subject, contact your family healthcare provider.

Copyright (c) by the American Academy of Family Physicians

Permission is granted to print and photocopy this material for non-profit educational uses.

Written permission is required for all other uses, including electronic uses.

Nova Scotia Telecare, Reviewed by Clinical Services Working Group, July 2019

58591

Search Health Topics

Hot Topics:

COVID-19
Influenza
prideHealth
Need A Family Practice?
Boil Water Advisories
Loving Care
Air Quality and Your Health
Physical Activity
Healthy Eating
Organ Donation
  • Feedback Process
  • Contact Us
  • Privacy
  • Terms
  • Cookies
  • Crown copyright © Province of Nova Scotia.