For many single parents, juggling family, work, and life can be hard. Often times, the pressure can be very overwhelming. Recently, one of our readers shared this question:



Q: I am a recently divorced mom to two daughters, ages 6 and 8. Because of the separation, we've had to make some changes including me having to return to work full time. Financially, things have been rough and while my girls understand that mommy needs to work, I feel horribly guilty that I'm not there. I think they can see my stress because lately they've been apologizing (for nothing really). I'm worried that they're feeling like it's their fault and they're the burden. Do you have a few tips for Single Parents on ways to minimize pressure (so that our children don't feel like they're burdens) etc?



We asked Parents Ask expert Dr. Ann Corwin, The Parenting Doctor, to share her thoughts:

 

A:  1st of all forgive yourself...you cannot do it all and you're not supposed to! Loving your kids includes feeling over burdened sometimes, that does not mean you are a bad parent! Anything worth having takes hard work, including kids. Kids learn best through play so when you feel over worked think I need to play with my kids! When you feel like yelling start whispering! Find just one moment to yourself and plan how you are going to fill your cup up so you have enough energy for your kids! Kid don't the 'super parent', they just need your presence!