Smart Strategies for Single Parents

Being a parent is both wonderful and stressful. Single parents face the extra pressure of dealing with challenges alone. These tips may help you cope:

• Take care of yourself. If you are healthy, you can take better care of your child. Get regular checkups. Exercise and eat a healthy diet.  If you need help finding a doctor for yourself, please call Keystone Mercy Member Services at 1-800-521-6860.  You can also click here to go to the Keystone Mercy provider directory to find a doctor.

• Talk with your child. Read, play, listen to music, or do crafts together. Don’t burden your child with adult worries.

• Manage your child’s care. Can you share child care with another single parent? Ask your doctor, social worker, or child’s teacher about programs such as Head Start and after-school activities.

• Be organized. This can help lower stress about money. Know when bills are due. Keep good records.

• Be proud of things you do well as a parent. Keep in mind that it is OK to ask for help when you need it.