Raising an Only Child

Parenting just one has its own joys and difficulties.

By Colleen Davis Gardephe

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Introduction

Fifty years ago, when only children represented just 10 percent of all kids under age 18, "onlies" were often thought of as lonely, spoiled, and socially inept. But the tide has turned, and as the number of only children climbs, their place in society has risen. Today there are some 14 million only children in America, representing about 20 percent of all kids, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

A small family differs dramatically from a large one and, consequently, comes with an entirely different set of challenges and rewards. Read the following pages for some strategic guidelines to parenting an only child.

Continued on page 2: Help Forge Friendships

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