Importance of Support Networks to Single Parents

by Michele Thorne | More from this Blogger

06 Feb 2007 06:00 PM

One of the most important pieces in life in general, whether it's for single parenting, homeschooling, or getting a job you want, etc., is having and using a support network. So, what is a support network? It is a group of people who can and will assist you in the adventure called life. In the case of homeschooling it's a network of people who will help you in all aspects of homeschooling, in the case of single parenting, it's people who will help you with all aspects of being a single parent. You could even have a different support network for different aspects of the general areas. You could have a support network for curriculum, and a different one for socialization, and yet another one for field trips. A support network is a group of people who can share their knowledge, experience, time, support, advice, or just a pair of ears or shoulder when you need one.

Who should be in your support network? That depends on you personally. Your support network could include anyone from your family and friends to neighbors and co-workers, from your child's other parent to a single parenting group (local, state, national, online), a local play group to just other single parents in the area you've met here or there. Everyone and anyone who can and will assist you in one way or another in your single parenting adventure. One thing you must remember is, a support network goes both ways. They (whoever they are) are going to be helping you, so you will also be helping them, and just because they are helping you one way, doesn't mean you will be helping them the same way. They may be helping you with child care, and you may be a pair of ears to listen, or a shoulder to cry on. Learn to recognize your support network, and learn to look for people who you can add to your support network. Look for more on support networks soon, including all the possibilities of who you could add and different reasons they may be a good choice.

Learn more about Michele Thorne

Michele Thorne is an all purpose person. She is a full time single mom (her son's father is not involved in his life in any way, shape, or form) caring for her son Jonathan.

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