Tips for Solo Mums & Solo Dads Going It Alone

Flying completely solo as a parent? Feeling like you might be having a bit of a dip? Allow us to give you fresh wings with our tips for solo mums and solo dads.

Children and Nature image of solo dad with son

Image: childrennaturenetwork

Here at Frolo we love that our community of single parents is made up of individuals from a host of different backgrounds and in a plethora of situations. But we recognise that the challenges facing those who are co-parenting vs flying completely solo are very different. Which is why we encourage our frolos to seek connection, both on and offline, with those facing the same challenges as them.

Parenting alone, whether as a solo mum or solo dad, can be a challenging and rewarding experience. It often comes with unique struggles and joys that are different from those experienced by co-parents. Here are some tips for solo parents navigating the ups and downs of going it alone.

Tips For Solo Mums & Solo Dads

Build a support network

Whether you’re a solo mum or solo dad, going it completely alone isn’t an option. Even if you live in an area where physical support is limited, connecting to loved ones on the phone or digitally is a good idea, and finding a support network of people online who understand what you’re going through is a genuine game changer. Download the Frolo App and join a solo parent chat and connect with others going through what you are going through. You’ll feel instantly less alone, and decidedly less ‘solo’.

Prioritise self-care

Solo mothers and fathers often have to juggle multiple responsibilities, so it's easy to put self-care on the backburner. However, it's important to prioritise self-care to avoid burnout. It isn’t as impossible as it sounds and can be in small slices if you don’t have much in the way of free time, but it can include exercise, meditation, therapy, or hobbies that provide relaxation and enjoyment. Put this at the top of your list, not the bottom, because it’s the most important thing you do, not an optional extra.

Find a routine

Solo parents often have to balance work, childcare, and household responsibilities, so finding a routine that works for you is imperative. This can involve creating a schedule, delegating tasks to your children where appropriate, or seeking outside help with childcare or housekeeping.

Seek out resources

There are many resources available for solo mums and dads, including government programmes, non-profit organisations, and online support groups (including Frolo of course!). Researching and utilising these resources can provide financial assistance, parenting tips, and a sense of community. Check out our blogs on financial resources and benefits here, and our main resources list, here.

Embrace your role

Solo fathers in particular may face stigma or judgement from others who believe that the mother should be the primary caregiver. However, it's important to embrace your role as a father and understand that you are enough for your children, just as you are. If your house is full of love, they have everything they need in abundance.

Communicate with your children

It's important to communicate openly with your children about their feelings and needs, and how their family set-up may be different from others, but is no less complete. Solo parents may have to navigate difficult conversations about the absence of another parent, but being honest and supportive will ease the emotional burden not just on your children, but on yourself, too.

Give yourself a break

Just like every parent on the planet, you are learning as you go. Don’t be so hard on yourself. Enjoy the ways that solo parenthood gives you a unique and beautiful experience with your children, and allow yourself to grow with your kids. You’ve got this.