Ronald Bernard Waddell Jr. is executive director of Worcester nonprofit Legendary Legacies.
Updated: February 7, 2022
10 things
10 Things I know about ... Being a single working parent
By Ronald Bernard Waddell Jr.
Parenting is hard; single parenting is harder; being a working single parent is hardest. These tips make it easier.
10) Be open with your supervisor. I'm not suggesting you give your supervisor an ultimatum but be very upfront about your parenting schedule and needs.
9) Have a network and say yes to support. Having family or friends when you have an emergency is a must. You can create a free night rotation so each person gets a kid-free night.
8) Create routines. Have a routine that starts the night before, including picking clothes. Have a morning checklist to ensure you don't miss anything.
7) Discuss your work with your children. It helps paint a fuller picture of what your life is like. It is a great way to discuss problem-solving. I have gotten some pretty cool ideas from my sons on business strategies.
6) Bring kids to work ceremonies or events. After one check presentation ceremony, my son Josh wanted to understand how banks work and why they gave to Legendary Legacies.
5) Carve out time for yourself. Normalize taking vacations without children. Ensure time apart to explore, enjoy, and experience your life.
4) Don't apologize for needing to take time off for children. Children have needs, and you should not feel you need to apologize for tending to them.
3) Find out their love language and show it often. I recommend Dr. Gary Chapman's book ‘The five love languages of children.’
2) Give yourself grace and patience. You are accomplishing a fantastic feat – you are developing a human being. Be patient with yourself and give yourself grace.
1) Focus on quality time together. When you’re with your children, be present and curious about their life. I have found the “Little Talk” cards by BestSelf Co. as great conversation starters.
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