SINGLE-PARENT FAMILIES CAN SUCCEED-Single Parents, Multiple Challenges

Unique Challenges of Divorced Parents

Single parents realize that their children's individual needs are different and in a constant state of flux. For divorced single parents, providing reasonable opportunities for spiritual guidance may bring unique challenges.

For example, some divorced parents who are Jehovah's Witnesses may not have custody of their children.  They have sought to have their visitation at a time when they can give the child regular contact  with the Christian congregation, which is of great benefit to children of divorce. 

Divorced parents who have fewer opportunities for regular contact with their children need to look for ways to assure them of their love and affection.  To be successful, a parent needs to be sensitive to a child's changing emotional needs.  This is particularly true when a child reaches adolescence and take a growing interest in social activities and friends.

The successful parent also understands the child's capabilities, personality, and manner of thinking.  (Genesis 33:13)  Parent and child enjoy close, intimate, and warm conversations and association with each other.  The lines of communication are open.  The child is involved in the parent's  life, and the parent is involved in the child's life.

Next time: Single-Parent Families Can Succeed-Single Parents, Multiple Challenges/The Need for Reasonableness

From the Awake! magazine