Are you a single parent? These 7 tips can help you build a healthy bond with your child

If you are a single parent, it is natural that you would be facing a different set of challenges. But worry not, because these tips can help you!
Mother with her child
Try to spend quality time with your child, even if you are busy. Image courtesy: Shutterstock
Devina Kaur Published: 29 Oct 2021, 08:58 am IST
  • 105

The relationship between a child and his/her parents is the most critical. That’s because a child initially learns about their immediate environment through the bond with their parents. As they grow and adapt to life’s changes, children look up to their parents to find out if they are really loved and cared for. This parent-child relationship also serves as the foundation of their future relationships.

Things might be a little challenging in case of a single parent, but you can come a good one by following these tips:

single parent
Being a single parent is a lot more demanding. But it’s essential for you to go an extra mile. Image courtesy: Shutterstock
  1. Never miss out on showing love

At every stage of our lives, we need love and affection for our mental well-being. It is important for your child to receive gentle, loving words and hugs from you multiple times in a day. Try to connect more and have an honest interaction with your child using warm expressions and eye contact. Don’t forget to smile often whenever you are having an interaction with your child to make them feel comfortable and cared for

To make sure your child always remembers that they are loved, say “I love you” to them no matter what age they are at, and even more so when they make mistakes. Remind them that you love them unconditionally, as this can help in building a positive relationship with your child.

  1. Listen to them

Being raised by a single parent can often be as difficult for the child, as it is for you. To build a strong connection with your child, it is very important that you communicate with them and allow them to communicate about their feelings with you.

Always listen to whatever they have to say. If you listen, the child will feel free to communicate with you about anything at any time. Try seeing things from your child’s perspective, make sure you understand and respect your child’s feelings and reassure them that you are always there to help with whatever they need. 

  1. Play and eat together

Playing is important for a child’s development, it is with the help of playing that a child develops various skills and learns to socialize more. Playing is a fun way to strengthen your relationship with your child. Eating with your child would also help to encourage great conversations and bonding time. Additionally, it will help in informing your child about healthy food habits and will strengthen both their mental and physical well-being.

single parent
Playtime is important too! Image courtesy: Shutterstock
  1. Always be there for them

It sure is a difficult task to always be available for your child, especially when you are a single parent. That’s because you have to take care of other important things as well, while balancing all of life’s demands. However, it is important that you spend quality time with your child, and always be available whenever they need you. Find ways to have an interaction where you’re both available, without making it feel like a demand.

  1. Build trust and mutual respect

Trust and respect are two important aspects of a positive parent-child relationship. Developing trust is important for your child to feel safe and secure. When children learn that they can trust you, they can be more open about sharing their thoughts with you and respect your position in their lives. This sense of safety and security helps in building their confidence to explore the world. It will also help in getting to know your child better, as showing respect for your child’s feelings and opinions will encourage your child to keep sharing them with you.

  1. Making them a priority

One of the most important aspects of building a positive parent-child relationship is to be in the moment with your child, and spend as much time with your child as you possibly can.

single parent
Remember, a parent is a child’s first best friend. Image courtesy: Shutterstock
  1. Be a partner for them

Help your children to explore, learn about new things and create a comfortable environment around them. As a single parent, you might have the sole responsibility to take care of your child and manage daily chores.  There’s certainly no lie in the saying that it is difficult for single parents to raise a child on their own. 

Select Topics of your interest and let us customize your feed.

PERSONALISE NOW

Single parents face unique challenges that others don’t have to struggle with. There is no manual or book that comes with the birth of your child that you can rely on to raise and build a healthy relationship with them.

The last word

Building a healthy relationship with your child as a single parent can be really challenging, but if you implement these single parenting tips, it can become a rewarding experience and help you overcome the challenges of raising a child alone. It will also help your child in becoming a good person! 

  • 105
About the Author

Devina Kaur is an inspirational speaker, radio host, and producer. She is also the author of the self-help book called "Too Fat Too Loud Too Ambitious". ...Read More

Next Story