Parenting as a Christian Single Dad

Sometimes it can be very challenging to communicate anything with your child. Setting clear expectations for chidlren regarding what's acceptable behavior and what isn't is imperative to successfully teaching your child right from wrong. If the parameters are muddled or the child learns that in one situation the rules hold true yet in another situation the same rule does not, it makes for confusion and frustration on both sides. Sit down with your child well in advance and line out the expectations and consequences of misbehaving or a misdeed. Make it clear that in no uncertain terms is there any room for negotiation at the time of the infraction, and that should such a behavior occur you intend to be firm in your discipline. Rules regarding your child's safety, health or well-being should have no room for negotiation when being set or enforced. Other rules can be openly and honestly discussed with your child and an agreed upon action should be forged that both parents an...

Since Madalyn has not been going back and forth from my house to her moms she really seems to be doing so much better. Yet I am concerned because I know that her chances will be so much better if her mom and I can co-parent her in a healthy and kind manner . My ex will no longer talk to me because her new husband thinks we are having an affair which is totally rediculous. Because of this I feel that Madalyn is missing out so I made 2 mistakes that I am aware of recently: 1) I told my ex to call and talk to her daughter every night. She was only doing it once a week and I just don't think that is right. That pissed her off because I was being controlling - so I am told. 2) When her mom does call that one time a week Madalyn asks her "why are you calling?" and often times says she doesn't want to talk to her. I expressed to Madalyn that it is important for her to talk to her mom and stop what she is doing. I mentioned this to a coworker and was quickly reprimande...

When parents send their children for after school programs, they take it for granted that the child is safe. But since the number of children  participating in these activities has increased, it is necessary to look into safety issues. Children are vulnerable when they are outside the classes. While going or  returning, they should know the safest route to take. Many kids hang out  with their friends just after these classes. Find out 'danger zones' from  your neighbors and make the children aware of these. The child has to know how to handle emergencies. It is better to discuss  various scenarios with your child. Tell her what she should do in case the class is suddenly cancelled. Show her the first-aid kit at home and make sure she knows whom to call in an emergency. Post any important contact  information in a place that is easily accessible to the child. If the child will be alone at home, discuss a few unexpected things with her. Tell her to use t...