Coping

[HazelWings]

How do you get a grip on the days where you just want to pull your hair out and slap a child into next week? What do you do when it gets overwhelming?

 

[FaithPrevails]

Call a friend or take a mommy time out.



It can be difficult when you're the only one. But, try to bear in mind that it's difficult for your kid(s), too. Especially depending on how new your situation as a single parent is.

I will be praying for you to have the patience and wisdom needed to deal with your frustrations appropriately. Come here and vent as often as needed.

 

[HazelWings]

Thank you

 

[FaithPrevails]

You're welcome. Welcome to CF, by the way. I see you are new here. I've been around a while and I'm a staff member on leave right now - so let me know if you have any questions or if I can help you with anything.

 

[jesuschica]

amen Faithprevails xxxx and above all Angelwings remember we are all in the same (or similar ) boats on here .........we all have days like that xxx def take some time out for yourself and remember it won't always be like this ...........God Gives us Grace as required as single mummies xx turn to Him for it....He wont disappoint xxx love and blessings to you and your family

 

[emilyloohoo]

I definatley feel you on this one. There days where it seems too much for me to handle. But always remember that God never gives any of us anymore than we can handle. Try taking a time-out for yourself. I don't personally believe in spanking, so instead I just go outside and take a breather. That way, I'm not tempted to do something in a moment of anger that I will regret later. I hope this helps....

 

[faith177]

Take a breath and remember that time goes so fast, try to enjoy even the crazy moments with your kids. My son is 19 and out of the house now and I have so many regrets of wasted time and too many video games.
My daughter is 12 and has her moments for sure, How old are your kids?

 

[tiffyof6ntwins]

I completely understand how you feel. I have been living the single mom life for only over a year now, but some days I do have to just walk outside alone.. I have 6 kids from 20 yrs old to 5 yr old twins. every day is like this to me! always something new. Just today my 13 yr old had been caught stealing money from my sister. I think in her case its looking for attention being as since theres only 1 of me sometimes i dont have enough time in a day to spend with all of them.

They think they can get away with things because theres only 1 of us virsus them, but they will learn that ones not true in any sense. And i for one will not hesitate to spank my kids when they down right do something they know they shouldnt.

 

[Mr. Runningfish]

I do not spank my kids currently (but I have before, open hand palm on behind). For my two 15yo and 7yo, removing privileges like tv, phone, internet and (boyfriends! ) work wonders for making sure they stay in line.

It's been hard on all of us, but we'll persevere. I still expect my kids to try their best, but I will let somethings slide depending on the situation.

My daughter told me she wanted to go live with her mom (I felt so betrayed) because i wouldn't let her go to the mall unsupervised with her boyfriend. In my head, I screamed out "[bless and do not curse][bless and do not curse][bless and do not curse][bless and do not curse][bless and do not curse]!"

I told her I still loved her and walked away so I could cool off. I keep my hair short and clean, so I don't have any to pull out, but I SO felt like it!

 

[AllieBaba2012]

When you figure it out, let me know, we can write a book and become rich and famous.

My kids are 8 and 9 (this month) and are giving me fits...TERRIBLY disobedient and destructive, driving me insane. I've already taken all their privileges and we're at the point where I just am sitting on them, all day long. arrrrggg!

 

[white dove]

I have a baby, so I can't completely relate. Things do get overwhelming though and I think that happens because the ideal is 2 parents: one helps with the children while the other does other tasks or relaxes from working. The other parent is the helpmate and when you're a single parent, you don't have that luxury. Everything lays on you. But, I think it's important to take time out; get away from the situation as long as the kids are safe and happy - even if it's only a minute or so to take some deep breaths. If it's possible to wait for your kids to nap or sleep, take that time to de-compress. If not, ask a trusted friend or family member to watch your kids for a bit while you do what you have to do to keep sane. I do wish this forum was more active because I think single parents need a lot of support and encouragement.

 

[homeofmew]

Depends on the age of the child with workability

 

[BlueJay83]

I find my sons (3, 5 and 7) cause trouble and fight when they are not occupied..

So we play a bit of a game and I act as "DrillSeargentDad" and i getthem to do chores.

I just pick "age appropriate" things for them to do.

That helps me as I have a tidier house, it keeps them busy and they actually like the "sir yes sir" bit when they come back reporting for duty.


but yeah... just keep them occupied, and do it in a way that HELPS you.

They get a reward of hot chocolate and biscuits later..

 

[Hadassah_]

When you figure it out, let me know, we can write a book and become rich and famous.

Right!?!?!?!

Usually I just leave the house and they're apologetic when I get home.

I'll be honest though, aside from testing me and arguing with each other there aren't a lot of times when I feel like I chould choke them.