Coddle Your Children
In the presence of many responsibilities, it is easy to overlook the emotional needs of children. Remember that children in a single-parent household will not get any affection if it does not come from their parent. Children crave commendation, so give praise more often than chastisement. On a regular basis, give hugs and remind children that they are loved. Make your child feel special, and assure them that they do not lack anything in the way of love.
Beware of Burdening
Many children of single parents can be made to feel like a burden. Beware of babysitters who do not really want to babysit. Without thinking, the nicest of adults can do or say things that make the child feel as if they are only watching them to help out the single parent. Children can also impose feelings of being a burden on themselves when they see that their parent works very hard. Do what you can to combat those feelings.
