Writing Sample from eHow.com May 12, 2008:
http://www.ehow.com/how_2285437_raise-child-alone.html

How to Raise a Child Alone
By jackiepanda

Raising a child is undoubtedly one of the most stressful jobs you can have; let alone raising one by yourself. This article will give you a few tips on how to help positively raise your child by yourself and with the help of family and friends.

Raising a child is undoubtedly one of the most stressful jobs you can have; let alone raising one by yourself. This article will give you a few tips on how to help positively raise your child by yourself and with the help of family and friends.

Things You’ll Need:
a warm heart

an open mind

lots of patience

most of all...LOVE

Step1• Teach your child independence and responsibility.
Children who grow up in single parent homes are likely to take on more of the household tasks and are relied upon to take on extra responsibilities. This can help to encourage and foster maturity at an early age. Encourage independence with positive reinforcement and support.

Step2• Take advantage of extra bonding time.
While having two parents is ideal, many times children are stuck in the middle when mom and dad do not get along. Children of single parent households avoid the stigmatism of arguing parents and tend to form stronger bonds with the existing parent. Take advantage of your extra time together.

Step3• Enjoy the benefits of a large support system.
Many times children who are raised by only one parent are fortunate to have an extended support system. Family members and friends will often chip in to lend a helping hand with daycare, errands and mentoring. Rather than trying to take on the world by yourself, allow your family and friends to help out from time to time.

Step4• Deal with financial issues.
Unlike two-parent households, single parents must learn to budget all family and household expenses on one income instead of two. Often, this can create a strain, limiting or eliminating unnecessary luxuries. Teach your child the value of a dollar by setting up a chore-for-reward system. This will be fun for your child and also help you with household tasks.

Step5• Talk openly about dating as a single parent.
Dating is hard enough when you’re single; let alone having a child who will also be affected by your dating decisions. Before you start dating, you may want to sit down with your child and have open and honest conversations about your dating intentions.

Step6• Focus on positive choices.
While not having a partner to argue with can be considered a good thing, not having the support of a partner can also be a challenge. You may feel alone or frustrated. If you’re feeling a bit overwhelmed, stop for a moment, breathe and focus on the positive choices you have made. This can also help to show your child an example of your strength and help them feel safe.


Tips & Warnings
Although you may be confused or overwhelmed with raising a child alone, here are some places you can look for support, not only with childcare but also for your physical, spiritual and mental well being:

• church
• community groups
• family and friends
• family therapists
• daycare
• health clubs
• physicians
• single parent support groups
• social services
• your child’s school.

Remember, you’re not in this alone. Take advantage of your personal power and be proactive in your child’s life to prevent serious problems from arising. You alone have the power of choice to make the best decisions for you and your child.
Resources
Baker, Dan (2003). Adapted from What Happy People Know.
Wolf, Jennifer (2007). How to Get Through the First Year as a Single Parent
Wolf, Jennifer (2007). Positive Effects of Single Parenting