Single Parenting during the Pandemic: Tips & Tricks
The ongoing covid-19 pandemic has gripped everyone in fear and uncertainty irrespective of age. Everyone is holed up in their homes in fear of contracting the virus. This social distancing has made the adults anxious but they are smart enough to cope with it. The real victims are the children who are not able to grasp the seriousness of the situation and are in constant confusion about why they are being holed up in the house. On top of that, if you are a single parent, your responsibility is increased two-folds as you are the sole person responsible for your child’s mental and physical well-being. Take steps to care for your child through the winter season at home. Here are some tips to help you manage your child’s well-being.
- Address Fears
Children rely on their routines. Once their routine is disrupted they begin to fall into stress. In such a situation, they need the help and support of their parents. In such situations:
- Answer their questions about the pandemic. Sit your children down and answer all their queries in a calm manner so they are able to properly grasp the situation.
- Acknowledge their feelings. It is helpful for the child when their parents understand their mental situation and help them tackle it. If your child is feeling anxious or stressed and acting out, throwing tantrums then it is no good if you respond with strictness or anger yourself. Respond by saying things like “I know dear what you are feeling and I understand.”
- Keep in Touch with your loved ones. During lockdowns, everyone is limited to their homes. The children are not able to visit their loved ones. Keep in touch with their grandparents, cousins, aunts, and uncles through video calls. Organize conference calls with your child’s friends so they don’t feel alone.
- Establish Healthy Routine
Children seek safety and comfort through their set routines. As you and your child are limited to your home, work together with your child to set a healthy routine. Incorporate activities in your child’s routine that include physical movement, mental stimulation, and relaxation of mind and body.
In case your child is sick, you can consult a doctor online and order medicines through sites that offer online pharmacy shipping to the USA. Manage their symptoms through healthy food choices as well.
- Use Positive Discipline
The lockdown phase has been hard on everybody. Use this time to positively discipline your child rather than unnecessarily strictness.
- Redirect tantrums. Find activities to distract them when they are angry or cranky.
- Play creatively. Ask your child to draw paintings on how they are kept safe at home during the pandemic. Hang their drawings and paintings on the walls and appreciate their art.
- Use rewards to encourage good behavior. Give them little rewards and privileges such as extra screen time or toys when they show good behavior and complete their chores. This will help the child learn manners well.
