Smart Strategies for Single Parents

With the number of single parents steadily increasing, more people than ever are bringing up baby by themselves. We asked Jodi Seidler, founder of Making Lemonade -- The Single Parent Network, for her advice on going it alone.

Q: I am so busy with my three kids, I can't imagine having time for dating. But I know I should -- and I want to. How can I find the time when I'm working full-time?

Jodi Seidler: Oh yes, children, work, housework, homework, and dating? Sounds almost frivolous, doesn't it. It is important to take the time for yourself, and also dip our toes into the dating waters (as scary as that might seem for some of us). Some people believe Internet dating is a good way to begin, as long as it is done safely. This way you don't have to leave your house and can take some time when the kids are in bed to slowly get to know some men in your area online. I believe in getting to know people through friends (put the word out you're interested in dinner dates or coffee dates to some of your work or personal friends and see what happens).

If you belong to a church or synagogue, there are most times single groups or single parent groups (I have started single parent groups in my son's school and synagogue), and you can meet people there to date or at least practice dating with. It's important to step outside of the survival mode of working and eating and parenthood and begin to get to know who you are and perhaps build intimate relationships around you. At least begin to think about it and perhaps find other moms who are in a similar place who can be a support system buddy and a companion in the possibility of dating so you don't feel alone.

Q: My husband and I divorced last year around this time, and I've noticed that my 6-year-old son is starting to act out lately. He's been taunting his little sister and saying no to everything I ask him to do. Any suggestions?