In the fast-paced world of the 2020s, every mom has her own set of tools for raising children safely and wisely. If you’re a single mother bringing up young kids, you probably already have a go-to set of guidelines for proper parenting. Because every situation is unique, no two sets of rules are the same.
What are some of the things most moms have in common when it comes to keeping kids safe, well behaved, out of trouble, and free from financial turmoil? The following suggestions show up frequently when mothers discuss what works best for their families.
Stay Informed About Social Media Trends
Don’t let young ones peruse the internet without your guidance. Of course, you can’t hover over their shoulders 24/7, but you can take steps to safeguard the devices they regularly use. That means adding parent approved software and apps to every computer your child uses at home and on the go, including tablets, desktops, laptops, phones, and enabled watches.
Then, remember to stay informed about social media trends, new chat services, file sharing sites, and other resources that could pose a danger to youngsters by exposing them to predatory adults and bullies.
Be Smart When Paying for College
When the time comes to send sons and daughters off to college, the first thing on your mind will probably be what’s the best way to pay all the school-related expenses? For most mothers, savings accounts and set aside funds don’t come close to covering all the education bills.
Getting a private parent loan is the ideal solution for mothers who don’t want their kids to graduate with a burdensome amount of debt. The low-rate PPL is a way for parents to borrow in their own names, not as cosigners. Whatever arrangements you make with your children is up to you, but the loan will be in your name, not theirs.
Plan Impromptu Long Talks
It is important to spend quality time with loved ones, specifically your children. Set aside at least one long talk session per week to gain a fuller understanding of what young lives are like, what challenges kids face, and how your own kids are dealing with the stresses of everyday life. There’s no need to announce it’s time for the long discussion. That kind of language won’t cut it.
Instead, choose random days and times to sit down and chat one-on-one with them about whatever is on their minds. Don’t forget to include your own topics and direct the conversations toward important lessons you wish to teach at a particular time.
Don’t Pay Allowance for Every Chore
For kids up to about age 12, allowance is usually a sole source of income. But, be careful not to make every event an economic one. In other words, designate specific tasks for which youngsters can earn money and ones for which they deserve nothing. This detailed lesson teaches them that some everyday chores, like doing dishes and taking out the trash, are unpaid family responsibilities.
If you don’t set up a clear division between allowance-worthy work and family-based chores, you’re sending money messages that are both confusing and ambiguous.