The Perks of Single Parenting

Studies indicate that children need the influence of both parents in their lives. While this might be ideal, it isn't always possible. In fact, an estimated 12.2 million single parent families exist across the United States. Of these families, approximately 80% were led by single mothers. Being a single parent isn't easy, but a recent article by HuffPost Divorce argues that it comes with a few worthwhile perks. For example, single moms and dads don't have to worry about negotiating with another parent. Married couples don't always see eye to eye on decision related to child-rearing. Sometimes, this creates balance; other times, it creates inconsistency. As a single parent, you only have to be consistent with yourself.

Secondly, single parents have the opportunity to instill a strong sense of independence in their children. As a single mom or dad, your children get to see a stellar role model for independence every day. With an independent parent, your kids will grow up with the assurance that they can make it on their own. Your kids will have an easier time understanding the importance of love in a relationship – not the importance of needing a relationship for its own sake. This attitude will spill into your children's lives and help them grasp a better understanding of what it means to be a self-sufficient, competent, and independent adult.

Your kids are the only ones who will benefit from your single lifestyle. According to HuffPost, married women pack on an average of 54 pounds within the first ten years of their marriage. Single moms, statistically, tend to stay slimmer. This is probably due to the fact that single men and women have a subconscious desire to look good for potential mates. After a divorce, you are more likely to stay fit and trim – not gain weight like your married peers. Single parenting is stressful – no one is arguing that – but this doesn't mean that single parenting doesn't have a silver lining.

At Menduni Martindill, PLLC, we are committed to practicing family law in Austin, Texas and the surrounding areas. As a family law firm, we help single parents and single-parent families deal with legal issues related to child custody, child support, fathers' rights, and other matters. We are passionate about helping others and always strive to give our clients the best legal guidance and assistance that we can offer. We are recognized by the BBB®, and were selected for inclusion in Super Lawyers®. Our practice areas include divorce, alimony, grandparents' rights, asset division, equitable distribution, modifications, parental relocation, and domestic violence cases. Contact us today to see what our Austin family lawyer can do for your family law case.