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My world stopped for the briefest moment the day the two blue lines appeared in the pregnancy test window.
When it began turning again and I knew my life was going to irrevocably change, I set about trying to find out how exactly. While it was easy enough to discover the physiological changes that were going to affect my body, there was little about the emotional business of single parenting.
In the few short years since my son was born however, the increase in single parent families and a huge growth in technology, means it's much easier to connect and the single mother-to-be or newly single parent has no need to feel isolated. Following are some tips on meeting other single parents.
Ignore the stereotype. Many of us feel we don't identify with the single parent stereotype and so are resistant to meet others because, well… they won't be like us. Despite what the media would have us believe, single parents can be professional women (or men), students, stay at home mothers, same sex parents, high flyers or hippies. We may be 18 or 38.
Network. Get yourself out there, whether it's just a regular play at the park, kinder gym or a music class.
If you are single and pregnant, ask your GP or midwife if they know of any single parent groups. Alternatively start your own. Ask if you can put a notice on the clinic's notice board.
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Join an established single parent's groups such as 'Parents without Partners'.
Use technology. The internet has become an invaluable tool in connecting people, with loads of single parent sites online.
Be proud of yourself. It's amazing how many others will profess their admiration. Accept and acknowledge the wonderful job you're doing.
Never be afraid to say you are a single parent. It will surprise you how many others will respond that they are too, or know someone who is.
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Natascha is a journalist and the author of the book
Going it Alone
(The Single Woman's Guide to Pregnancy and Birth)
www.goingitalone.com.au |
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