Learning to drive is a rite of passage for many teens, but when a parent takes on the role of instructor, it becomes something much more meaningful. For single parents, especially, offering driving lessons to their teenage children is not just a practical step — it’s an opportunity to strengthen their bond, instil values, and create lasting memories. Keep reading to find out how parent-led driving lessons contribute to personal growth, teach responsibility, and bring families closer together.

Key Benefits of Parent-Led Driving Lessons

Needless to say, teaching your child to drive can save you a lot of money. That aside, there are many other benefits to parent-led driving lessons aside from the obvious saving:

Turning Driving Lessons into a Bonding Opportunity

When a parent teaches their child to drive, they are not merely sharing the rules of the road — they are modelling trust, patience, and support. Formal driving lessons focus solely on skill-building, whilst a parent-child lesson creates a space where youngsters can ask questions and make mistakes without feeling embarrassed. They can learn at their own pace on familiar roads without the pressure of a formal driving lesson.

For single parents, this activity offers a unique opportunity to spend quality one-on-one time in an uninterrupted setting. In a busy world where we are all preoccupied with work, school, and domestic responsibilities and where teenagers have little time for their parents, a drive around town can turn into a much-needed opportunity to connect and have meaningful conversations with your youngster.

Building Responsibility Behind the Wheel

One of the greatest lessons that comes from learning to drive is understanding responsibility. From checking mirrors and blind spots to managing speed and understanding traffic laws, young drivers need to understand that they are now accountable for their own safety, that of their passengers, and that of others on the road.

When a parent guides that lesson, it becomes so much more meaningful. The young learner witnesses responsibility in action, from watching their parent calmly navigating rush-hour traffic to explaining why they always double-check their rear-view mirror before changing lanes. These habits, formed early, will stay with a young driver for life.

And it goes beyond just road safety. When a parent trusts their child enough to hand over their car keys, they signal faith and confidence in their child’s growing maturity. This can be incredibly motivating, encouraging teens to rise to the occasion.

Strengthening the Parent-Child Relationship

Few activities offer as much one-on-one time as driving lessons. This consistent, direct interaction opens the door to meaningful discussions. Whether you’re talking through parallel parking or sharing stories from your own first driving experiences, you’re also reinforcing a foundation of trust and communication.

As single parents, we often have to juggle multiple roles, so this time together is invaluable. The time you spend with your teen in the car will not only help them gain essential life skills; it also provides a platform to discuss goals, worries, dreams, or even just the events of the day. In a moving vehicle with no screens or distractions, many teens feel more at ease opening up.

Personalised Learning

If you are teaching your teenager to drive, you can tailor your lessons to your youngster’s pace and needs. Rather than suffering a dent in their confidence and wallet, your teenager can learn at a slower pace without having to worry about their friends, instructor, or parents counting the number of hours it takes to reach a level that might allow them to take a driving test.

Teaching Technical Knowledge

Knowing some technical details about your car is not only essential for passing a driving test but also for long-term vehicle safety and awareness. Teens should be taught how to check tyre pressure, monitor oil levels, and recognise dashboard warning lights, so make sure you make technical knowledge of your driving lessons.

Lighting is another area of concern. We spoke to Onlinecarparts.co.uk who stressed that headlights are essential for safety, especially in adverse weather or low-light conditions. Make sure your teen knows how to use full beams, when to switch on fog lights, and how to spot if a bulb has gone out.

Also worth discussing are brakes, windscreen wipers, and the importance of regular servicing. Not only do these aspects contribute to safe driving, but they also help young drivers understand that car ownership comes with responsibilities beyond simply driving.

Statistics: The Impact of Parent-Led Driving

Research supports the idea that young drivers benefit from parent involvement. The RAC Foundation found that young drivers who received substantial parental instruction had significantly lower accident rates within the first six months of driving compared to those who learned only through a driving school. Specifically, drivers taught by their parents had:

• a 20% lower crash risk in the first year
• 40+ hours lessons before receiving their driving license
• 65% more confidence in their driving on test day
• 73% of families said shared driving practice helped them bond

Tips for Parents Looking to Teach Their Kids:

1. Can I teach my child to drive? Check the gov.uk website to make sure you are legally allowed to teach your child to drive. If you live in the UK, you currently need to be over the age of 21, qualified for the vehicle you want to teach in, and have held a full driving license from the UK or EU for the past 3 years.

2. Provisional license: The young driver must have applied for and hold a provisional driving license.

3. Contact your car insurance: The holder of the provisional license must be covered by your car insurance policy, so make sure to have this amended before you start giving your child driving lessons.

4. Start slow: Begin in empty car parks or quiet neighbourhoods that your teenager is familiar with.

5. Be patient: Mistakes are part of the learning process. Keep calm.

6. Set goals: Use each lesson to focus on one skill, such as roundabouts or reverse parking. Don’t become overambitious or you will risk overwhelming your young driver.

7. Give praise: Celebrate small victories to build your teen’s confidence.

8. Lead by example: Practice good driving habits even when you’re behind the wheel. NEVER display road rage when travelling with youngsters.

Final Thoughts: More Than a Driving Lesson

Teaching your child to drive isn’t just a step toward independence — it’s a shared journey that can leave a lasting impact on both of you. It’s a chance to spend time together, foster trust, and instil values that extend beyond the driver’s seat.

Parent-led driving lessons are not just about clutch control or mirror checks. They’re about showing up, being present, and guiding your child through one of life’s biggest transitions. For single parents especially, they offer a moment to connect, laugh, teach, and grow — all while navigating the open road together.

Driving with a child in the backseat can be an opportunity for bonding, learning, and creating memories whether it’s on the daily school run or  on longer journeys. Yet these moments can equally be tainted by road rage, a behaviour many drivers exhibit when faced with traffic stresses. While adults might perceive road rage as a fleeting loss of temper, the repercussions for children who witness such behaviour in their parent can be profound. This article delves into the causes and consequences of road rage, how it shapes a child’s perception of their parent and strategies to overcome this destructive habit.

Understanding Road Rage: What Triggers It?

Road rage is often the result of stress, impatience, or frustration on the road, and who hasn’t felt stressed getting one or more kids to school in time, before trying to catch that train to work? Common triggers include:

• Heavy Traffic: Prolonged exposure to traffic congestion can irritate drivers, especially when running late.
• Reckless Drivers: Encounters with aggressive or careless drivers can provoke an emotional response.
• Unrealistic Expectations: Expecting smooth traffic flow during rush hour or perfect behaviour from fellow drivers often sets the stage for disappointment and anger.
• Personal Stress: Factors unrelated to driving, such as work pressure or a generally feeling of being stressed and tired that most parents – not just single parents – experience regularly, can exacerbate irritability behind the wheel.

These triggers are not uncommon, but they are compounded by modern road conditions, such as frequent construction zones and high traffic density. However, what starts as irritation can escalate into verbal or physical aggression, posing risks not only to the driver but also to those around them.

How Road Rage Impacts Children in the Car

Children are highly observant and impressionable. When exposed to road rage, they may internalize their parent’s aggressive behaviour, shaping how they perceive conflict and authority.

• Altered Perception of the Parent
  Children often view parents as role models and providers of safety. Observing a parent yell, use offensive gestures, or aggressively tailgate other drivers can create confusion and anxiety. The child might begin to question the parent’s ability to remain calm and in control, undermining their sense of security.
• Behavioural Patterns
  Constant displays of road rage can inadvertently teach children that aggression is an acceptable response to frustration. Studies have shown that children exposed to frequent parental aggression are more likely to exhibit similar behaviours in their social interactions, perpetuating a cycle of hostility and poor emotional regulation.
• Emotional Well-Being
  Witnessing road rage can increase a child’s stress levels. Loud arguments, harsh words, and tense situations create an atmosphere of fear, which may lead to long-term emotional issues like anxiety or difficulty managing their own anger. This is not how you raise happy and confident kids.

Causes of Road Rage and Parental Triggers

For single parents, having sole responsibility of their child’s safety, not just when driving, can heighten stress levels. Being late for school drop-offs, dealing with tantrums during car rides, or managing the logistics of family travel can contribute to feelings of frustration and impatience.

In some cases, physical factors like fatigue or even mechanical problems with the car can worsen road rage. For example, neglecting vehicle maintenance can lead to sudden breakdowns or reduced performance — something as simple as ignoring worn-out brake discs may cause a car to respond poorly in traffic, further increasing a driver’s stress.

The Consequences of Road Rage: Beyond Immediate Risks

• Accidents and Legal Repercussions
  Road rage increases the likelihood of collisions, endangering the driver, passengers, and other road users. Aggressive driving behaviours like speeding or weaving through traffic commonly contribute to accidents. These incidents can lead to legal consequences, such as fines, license suspension, or even jail time.
• Long-Term Impact on Children
  The behavioural patterns instilled in children during their formative years have lasting effects. A child who grows up observing road rage may struggle with healthy conflict resolution or view aggression as a normal aspect of adulthood.
• Erosion of Family Relationships
  If road rage becomes a regular occurrence, it may strain the parent-child relationship. Children may feel disconnected or reluctant to communicate with a parent they perceive as overly aggressive.

Breaking the Cycle: Strategies to Overcome Road Rage

Overcoming road rage is crucial for creating a positive environment for both the driver and their passengers. Here are some practical strategies:

• Improve Your Time Management
  So, you have several kids and a job to juggle? Work on your time management by getting out of bed 15 to 30 minutes earlier, waking the kids up earlier, and leaving yourself extra time in case you hit some traffic. This may require some self-discipline but will save you a huge amount of stress every morning.
• Practise Mindfulness and Stress Management
  Techniques, such as mindfulness, deep breathing, and focusing on calming thoughts can help parent drivers manage their emotions. Preparing mentally for the possibility of delays or mistakes from other drivers also reduces the likelihood of overreacting.

• Maintain Your Vehicle
  Ensuring that your car is in optimal condition can prevent avoidable stress. Addressing mechanical issues swiftly, such as replacing worn brake discs, ensures not only your family’s safety,  but also minimizes any anxiety that your vehicle might fail you on the road.
• Set Realistic Expectations
  Accept that delays and imperfect traffic conditions are a natural part of driving. Building in extra time for travel whether that’s the school run, commute to work or a holiday destination can reduce the pressure to meet strict deadlines, fostering a more relaxed mindset. Factor in breaks when you go on long journeys.
• Lead by Example
  Model patience and respect for other drivers and your children. Turn frustrating situations into teaching moments by explaining the importance of staying calm and considerate, even when others are not.
• Use Distractions Wisely
  Listening to soothing music, audiobooks, or engaging podcasts can help divert attention from aggravating traffic conditions and provide a more enjoyable experience for both parent driver and young passengers. Make sure your kids are not bored by packing plenty of books and travel toys for short term and long term journeys. This will help keep them calm and help you stay focused on the road.
• Seek Professional Help
  If road rage is persistent and severe, consider seeking help from a therapist or counsellor. Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) can be particularly effective in addressing anger management issues.

The Positive Ripple Effect of Overcoming Road Rage

When parents successfully manage their road rage, the benefits extend far beyond the immediate reduction of stress. Children who observe their parent handling frustration calmly are more likely to develop healthy coping mechanisms and exhibit empathy and understanding in their own interactions.

Furthermore, a peaceful car environment fosters better communication and bonding between parents and children. Road trips with kids can transform from tense experiences into opportunities for meaningful conversations, storytelling, or singing along to favourite songs.

A Reminder: It’s About the Journey, Not Just the Destination

Every moment spent driving with your child is an opportunity to set a positive example and create a safe, nurturing environment. While traffic frustrations are inevitable, how you respond to them shapes not only your experience but also your child’s worldview.

Parents must recognize the influence they wield and strive to be role models, both on and off the road. Remember, just as “brake discs may wear out” without proper care, so too can your emotional resilience and your child’s perception of you if road rage becomes a recurring pattern. Prioritize maintenance — of your car, your emotions, and your relationship with your child — and enjoy smoother, more harmonious journeys together.

Premature birth, a heartbreaking reality for many parents, can be even more challenging for single parents who have to manage this difficult time without the support of a significant other half.

According to the Imperial Biomedical Research Centre, premature birth is a leading cause of child mortality worldwide. In the UK alone, an estimated 53,000 babies are born prematurely each year. These tiny fighters often face many health issues, from respiratory problems to developmental delays. The emotional toll on any parent, not least a single parent, can be overwhelming, often leading to feelings of anxiety, depression, and guilt.

This article provides practical tips and support to help single parents navigate the complexities of raising a premature baby.

Coping with the NICU rollercoaster

Having a newborn in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) can be an emotionally taxing experience and a strain on your mental health, more so if you are parenting solo. According to Bliss, single parents of premature babies may experience a vast range of feelings, including fear, sadness, anger, guilt, and helplessness. You need to acknowledge and validate your emotions – there’s no single “right” way to feel.

However, navigating this emotional rollercoaster can be draining. Here are some strategies to help single parents cope with the stress of the NICU:

• Prioritize self-care: While your baby’s needs are paramount, neglecting your own well-being and mental health can hinder your ability to care for them effectively. Stick to a daily routine, including healthy meals, regular sleep, and personal hygiene. Even short breaks outside the NICU can help you recharge.
• Seek support: Connect with other NICU families who understand the unique challenges you face. Talk to a counsellor or social worker, or utilize support groups, such as Bliss, Netmums, etc.
• Focus on the positive: While concerns are valid, celebrate every milestone and positive development. This can help maintain hope and motivation on difficult days.
• Remember, you’re not alone: The NICU staff is there to support you. Ask questions, voice your concerns, and utilize their expertise to feel empowered during your baby’s journey.

How can I soothe my baby in the NICU?

To soothe your baby in the NICU, talk in a calm, soothing voice, keep lights dim, and minimize noise. While it’s natural to want to interact frequently, prioritize your baby’s sleep by allowing them to rest when needed. This gentle approach builds a comforting environment for your little one.

Educate yourself on premature baby care

Understanding your premature baby’s unique needs is crucial for providing the best possible care. This includes learning about respiratory support, temperature regulation, and nutrition. Premature babies often require extra attention in these areas, so seeking guidance from your hospital is essential.

Kangaroo care—skin-to-skin contact between a baby and a parent—offers numerous benefits. These benefits include reducing the risk of newborn health problems, promoting breastfeeding, and building a bond between parents and babies. However, for parents of premature babies in the NICU, providing kangaroo care can be challenging due to their infants’ fragile condition.

The i-Rainbow, an evidence-based clinical guide, aims to address this challenge. This tool helps doctors and nurses to determine the appropriate level of interaction a premature baby is ready for, including kangaroo care. The guide uses a six-level colour-coded acuity scale, with each stage outlining specific medical criteria and corresponding activities for parents to choose from. By starting with gentle interactions like sharing the maternal scent or placing still hands on the baby, the i-Rainbow prepares babies for kangaroo care. This approach allows parents to actively participate in their baby’s care while respecting their infant’s limitations.

Feeding tips for premature babies

According to the NHS, successful breastfeeding is crucial for reducing the risk and severity of complications in premature infants. However, mothers of premature infants are often less likely to have successful breastfeeding experiences compared to those of full-term babies.

Separation in the NICU, poor sucking ability, and emotional stress from preterm delivery can complicate breastfeeding. For single parents, choosing the right feeding method becomes even more critical. While formula feeding can be an effective solution, you need to exercise caution, especially with cow’s milk-based formulas.

The NEC lawsuit against major formula manufacturers, including Abbott Laboratories (Similac) and Mead Johnson (Enfamil), raises concerns. It claims that cow’s milk-based formulas may increase the risk of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) in preterm and low birth weight infants. TorHoerman Law notes that NEC is a serious intestinal disease that can be life-threatening for premature babies. The lawsuits have gained significant attention, with some manufacturers being ordered to pay hundreds of millions of dollars in settlements.

It’s essential for parents to consult with their paediatrician regarding the most suitable feeding option for their baby. They may recommend specialized formulas designed for premature infants or discuss the possibility of supplementing breastfeeding with formula.

When formula feeding, parents should follow the instructions carefully, ensure proper preparation, and store the formula according to guidelines. Additionally, they should monitor their baby for signs of discomfort or intolerance and consult their paediatrician if any concerns arise.

Be mindful of developmental milestones

Premature babies often reach developmental milestones at a slower pace than full-term babies. It’s crucial to be patient and work closely with your paediatrician to track your child’s progress based on their adjusted age.

According to a study published in Child Development, not all premature babies experience long-term developmental problems. The study categorized preemies into three risk groups:

• High-functioning: About 20% of preemies scored above average on cognitive tests.
• Intermediate: 41% of preemies performed well in memory, vocabulary, and reading but struggled with pattern recognition and working memory.
• Low-functioning: Nearly 40% of preemies scored below normal on all cognitive and attention tests.

The study emphasizes the importance of individualized care for premature babies, as their experiences can vary significantly. By understanding these risk categories and working closely with your paediatrician, you can tailor your child’s care to their specific needs.

When do premature babies start walking?

Premature babies typically start walking later than full-term infants. While full-term infants walk around 12 months, extremely and very preterm infants usually achieve independent walking by around 14 months. In very high-risk infants, this milestone may be further delayed, occurring at approximately 16 months.

Take advantage of financial and social support resources

As a single parent caring for a premature baby, financial and social support resources can make a significant difference as you may not be able to work and may face travel costs. There are a number of government-funded development services, you might qualify for depending on your financial situation. None are aimed specifically at parents of preemies and all are means tested: Child Benefit, Child Tax Credit, Sure Maternity Grant, and Healthy Start Scheme, as well as Best Start Grant and Best Start Foods in Scotland.

Non-profit organizations offer additional support, including guidance on navigating which support is available to you locally and access to essential baby care items. Some hospitals have a team of health professionals that will help you with the transition from the NICU to home. Being able to access these services, means you can guarantee your kid get the best care possible.

What is the biggest problem premature babies face?

The primary concern for premature babies is the significant health risks linked to early birth. Many organs, including the brain and lungs, are still maturing. This can result in challenges with maintaining body temperature, feeding, and a heightened likelihood of developmental delays in the future.

In summary

Caring for a premature baby as a single parent can be a challenging journey, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. By understanding your baby’s unique needs, seeking support, and prioritizing self-care, you can create a nurturing environment for your child to thrive. Be patient, celebrate milestones, and seek help when needed. With love, perseverance, and the right support, you can successfully navigate the challenges of single parenting a premature baby.

Travelling with children means finding ways to entertain them on the go. Journeys can be long and single parents’ nerves frayed, so it’s good to pack a few travel toys to entertain the kids on holiday and also to keep them calm during the journey. Electronic gadgets often hold kids’ attention for longer than traditional toys, but they can use up a lot of precious data. So, if you can connect to a free Wi-Fi network on the train or in an airport lounge, that’s a bonus.

The problem with public Wi-Fi networks is that they are often not secure, exposing your data to hackers. According to a survey by Forbes, airports, cafés, and restaurants are the most common areas where people fall victim to having their data hacked via public networks. But there are ways around this. Yet with a little technological help and plenty of vigilance, you and your kids can stay secure online and enjoy a stress-free single parent holiday. Here is how:

Use a virtual private network (VPN)

First of all, you could try to install a virtual private network (“VPN”) on all of your family’s devices that you are planning to take on holiday. This creates a secure internet connection, essentially making public Wi-Fi private. VPNs can be installed not only on computers and laptops, but also tablets and smartphones, so you and the kids can stay secure online whether you have to access work data, or they want to play games or watch films on the go.

Unfortunately, a VPN alone is not a silver bullet for online protection. It essentially masks your online activity over public networks, making it harder for third parties to access or steal your data.

Are VPNs legal in the UK? They absolutely are. But you will need to check the rules in other countries because some do restrict the use of VPNs Whether or not you are able to use VPNs, there are other things that you can and should do to make sure you and your children stay safe online.

Update your systems and settings before travelling

Updating your devices, systems, and software might not be at the top of your pre-trip checklist. But these updates are usually released to “patch” security holes that are a result of newly discovered threats. Hackers often target devices running older versions of software, as they have worked out the software’s weaknesses.

Downloading updates before travelling will also be easier and more secure than using mobile data or public Wi-Fi. You might want to set up automatic updates in the weeks and days before setting off just to make sure your family’s devices are all up to speed when your holiday starts.

Another tip that will help your family to stay secure online is to go into your devices’ settings and disable the auto-connect to Wi-Fi function. This way, you won’t automatically connect to suspicious networks while on the go.

Back up your data

Regularly backing up your data provides a safety net should something go wrong. Having all data backed up, gives you the option of re-setting a device that gets hacked. Equally, it means that you will be able to get up to speed much quicker if you need to replace a device that malfunctions, is lost, or is stolen.

If you are keeping key information on your phone, tablet, or laptop, make sure that backups are carried out regularly, so that you do not run the risk of arriving at your destination without access to your hotel details or emergency details, for example.

Stay alert to your surroundings

It’s natural to sometimes let your guard down when travelling, especially if you are going on a single parent holiday with one or more children. Nevertheless, it’s important to remain alert of your surroundings, and that includes keeping an eye on the devices and people around you.

Do not leave any of your gadgets lying around whilst travelling. Instead keep them with you, at all times or in a secure place, such as a safe in your locked hotel room. If you’re using any devices out in the open, be conscious of people sitting near you and peeking over your shoulder. Screen protectors can help block visibility in tighter spaces.

Remember that it’s best practice to keep your devices protected with a password and/or PIN and log out of accounts and apps when you’re not using them. Similarly, keep a close eye on what your children are doing while using connected devices. Setting up family profiles can limit certain actions, such as your kids’ making in-app purchases.

Educate your children

Depending on your kids’ ages, you might already have taken the step of teaching your children the basic principles of cyber security. Being upfront with your children is the best way to ensure they understand the need to be cautious when using their phones or tablets on holiday.

Explain the role smart devices are likely to play whilst travelling. Having a gadget on hand may seem the ideal way of passing the time during your journey or at the holiday resort. It is, however, not always appropriate, or advisable having your smart devices in your back pocket or hand: Situations such as moving through a busy airport or sitting in an open town square can provide opportunities for thieves and hackers. Encourage your kids to think about when it is safe to have their gadget in full view of others.

Have an emergency plan

Make sure you have a plan in case one of your family’s devices does get stolen or hacked on your single parent holiday. To this end, it’s wise to install location tracking on as many of your family’s devices as you can, so that you can provide that information in the event of theft.

Being able to remotely wipe data from a device is another smart move. Just make sure your data is backed up elsewhere.

Last but not least, it helps to have emergency contacts written down and stored in a wallet the old-fashioned way. This ensures that you can then reach someone if multiple devices go missing or are compromised.

We hope that our tips on how to stay secure online on your next holiday with kids was helpful. Online safety can be a real challenge, especially when you have older children, but there are ways you can protect your family’s devices and data. Continue to educate yourself and your children and use your common sense, and you won’t have to worry about falling victim to online predators or scams.

Solo parеnting, as rеwarding as it is, comеs with a sеt of challenges. Even planning a family vacation can sometimes seem like a daunting task. Howеvеr, with thе right mindsеt and somе stratеgic planning, еxploring dеstinations solo with kids, both in Europe and further afield, can turn into rеmarkablе advеnturеs.

Unique Destinations for Solo Adventures:

Single parent holidays rеquirе a blеnd of patiеncе and flеxibility, as well as an advеnturous spirit. That includes acknowlеdging that challеngеs may arisе but also knowing that thеy can bе navigatеd succеssfully. Rеmеmbеr, thе goal is to crеatе lasting mеmoriеs and еxpеriеncеs that bond you and your childrеn. Here are some ideas of unique holiday destinations that will create memories lasting a lifetime:

• Japan’s Family-Friеndly Culturе: Japan’s rich cultural hеritagе combinеd with its modеrn attractions makе it an idеal dеstination for solo parents. Tokyo, which we introduced in our blog post about hidden gems and hideaway hotels in famous cities, offеrs a blеnd of anciеnt traditions and futuristic еxpеriеncеs. Don’t miss out on Disnеyland or DisnеySеa for an еnchanting family advеnturе.
• Costa Rica’s Natural Wondеrs: This Central American gem offers both abundant natural beauty and family-friendly activities. From exploring rainforests to encountering wildlife, Costa Rica provides a once-in-a-lifetime holiday experience for both kids and adults. The Arenal Volcano National Park and Manuel Antonio National Park are must-visits.
• Scandinavian Marvеls in Norway: Take the kids on a road trip to see the Norwegian fjords. The country’s stunning natural beauty provides many opportunities for outdoorsy teenage families, from glacier hikes to kayaking trips. You could also go for a scenic ridе on thе Flåm Railway or еmbark on a fjord cruisе for brеathtaking viеws. Make sure to find out about the country’s Viking heritage and to stop in some of Norway’s vibrant cities.
• Australian Allurе: Australia’s divеrsе landscapеs and family-friеndly attractions makе it an еxciting dеstination for solo parеnts and thеir kids. From thе iconic Sydnеy Opеra Housе and Harbour Bridgе to thе brеathtaking Grеat Barriеr Rееf, thеrе’s an array of еxpеriеncеs awaiting visitors. Check out our top places for a road trip in Australia, because there is no better way to explore this vast country than on 4 wheels.

If you are considering an еxtеndеd stay in Australia to ensure you get to see more of this beautiful continent, check out thе Tеmporary Skill Shortagе TSS visa. This visa catеgory can providе opportunitiеs for skillеd workеrs to bе sponsorеd by an еmployеr, potеntially allowing for a longеr stay whilе еxploring thе country. Thе TSS visa offеrs a chancе to еxpеriеncе thе Australian lifеstylе morе profoundly, еnabling familiеs to immеrsе thеmsеlvеs in thе local culturе and crеatе lasting mеmoriеs.

How to Plan Your Solo Parenting Adventure:

• Rеsеarch and Prеparе: Prior rеsеarch about thе dеstination, accommodation options, and family-friеndly activitiеs on offer locally is crucial. Look for placеs to stay that offеr child-friеndly amеnitiеs and facilitiеs and activities within easy reach, especially if you are worried about hiring a car and driving abroad.
• Crеatе Itinеrary Flеxibility: Whilе having an itinеrary is еssеntial, lеaving room for spontanеity hеlps managе unеxpеctеd situations. Bе flеxiblе with schеdulеs to accommodatе thе childrеn’s nееds and intеrеsts and allow plenty of time to rest and refuel.
• Involvе Your Kids in the Planning: Engaging your childrеn in planning activitiеs givеs thеm a sеnsе of ownеrship and еxcitеmеnt about thе trip. Lеt thеm pick an activity or choosе a placе to еxplorе.
• Connеct with Othеr Solo Parеnts: Onlinе forums and communitiеs oftеn havе tips and advicе from othеr singlе parеnts who’vе travеlеd with kids. Thеir insights can bе invaluablе.
• Create a Pre-Trip Checklist for Your Solo Adventure: This will help you de-stress and feel in control, as well as avoiding the usual last minute rush with holiday preparations.

How to Make Mеmoriеs on Holiday:

Navigating dеstinations solo with kids isn’t just about thе placеs visitеd but thе mеmoriеs crеatеd. Capturе all those special momеnts through photographs, journaling, or simply by sharing еxpеriеncеs togеthеr. Embracе thе unеxpеctеd and turn mishaps into amusing anеcdotеs that will bе rеcountеd for yеars to comе. Find creative ways to preserve your holiday memories, so that you are able to enjoy them for years to come.

Ovеrcoming Challеngеs on Your Adventure:

Of coursе, thеrе might bе challеngеs along thе way—mеltdowns, missеd transportation, or unеxpеctеd changеs in plans. But thеsе hurdlеs can bе turnеd into lеarning еxpеriеncеs, tеaching rеsiliеncе and adaptability to both you and your childrеn.

Thе Powеr of Quality Timе on Holiday:

Travеlling as a singlе parеnt allows for dеdicatеd, unintеrruptеd quality timе with your childrеn. It fostеrs strongеr bonds, dееpеr convеrsations, and sharеd еxpеriеncеs that strеngthеn your family unit.

Final Thoughts:

Going on a holiday adventure as a solo parеnt might sееm likе a challеnging fеat at first, but it’s actually an immensely rеwarding journеy fillеd with uniquе advеnturеs and invaluablе bonding еxpеriеncеs. Embracе thе challеngеs, chеrish thе momеnts, and rеvеl in thе joy of еxploring thе world with your kids by your sidе. In thе еnd, it’s not just about thе dеstinations visitеd, but thе journеy еmbarkеd upon — thе laughtеr, thе lеarning, and thе lovе that makе thеsе advеnturеs as a solo parеnt truly pricеlеss.

Because thе еxpеriеncеs gainеd from solo parеnting advеnturеs еxtеnd far bеyond mеrе sightsееing. Thеy instilrеsiliеncе, adaptability, and opеn-mindеdnеss in both parеnt and child. Navigating unfamiliar tеrritoriеs togеthеr tеachеs problеm-solving and еncouragеs a sеnsе of indеpеndеncе in childrеn, fostеring thеir confidеncе to еmbracе nеw situations. As a solo parеnt, witnеssing your child’s curiosity ignitе amid cultural discovеriеs or thеir dеtеrmination flourish whеn ovеrcoming obstaclеs is a tеstamеnt to thе growth and rеsiliеncе fostеrеd through travеl. Thеsе sharеd momеnts bеcomе thе cornеrstonе of a family’s strеngth, wеaving a tapеstry of rеsiliеncе and lovе that еndurе long aftеr thе journеy еnds.

Becoming a single parent can be a challenging journey filled with triumphs and hurdles. Among the numerous responsibilities of raising children alone, securing their financial future is a paramount concern. With the absence of a partner’s support, single parents all over the world often face unique financial challenges that demand careful planning and foresight.

Understanding effective financial management is crucial for single parents to secure their children’s future, whether they are newly single parents or have been navigating this journey for some time. In this article, we will provide valuable advice and practical strategies for single parents in the US to safeguard their children’s financial well-being.

1. The Importance of a Budgeting and Saving Strategy

According to the Annie E. Casey Foundation data center nearly 24 million children lived in single parent families in the United States in 2021. Approximately 14.5 million children lived with their mothers, while over six million lived with cohabitating parents. The remaining percentage of children lived in father-only households.

The statistics also highlight the financial challenges faced by single parent families in the US. Nearly 30% of single parents lived in poverty, a significantly higher rate than just 6% of married couples in the same situation. Additionally, single parents were more likely to live in poverty when compared to cohabiting couples. Single mothers face a higher poverty risk than single fathers.

These figures emphasize the critical need for effective budgeting and saving strategies for single parents. Comprehensive budgeting can empower single parents to manage income and expenses effectively, directing funds toward essential needs, education, and unexpected contingencies. Incorporating prudent saving strategies also helps single parents build a safety net, shielding their children from financial uncertainties.

Remember, even small contributions to a savings account can accumulate over time, acting as a financial cushion during challenging times.

2. Investing Wisely for the Long-Term

While budgeting and saving are essential for day-to-day stability, investing offers the potential for substantial growth and wealth accumulation over time.

Diversification is a key principle in long-term investing. Spreading investments across various asset classes, such as stocks, bonds, real estate, and mutual funds, helps single parents to mitigate risks and maximize returns. By prioritizing low-cost, long-term investment options, such as index funds, you can optimize growth potential while minimizing fees.

Also, starting early and staying consistent in contributions to investment accounts helps you harness the power of compounding, allowing even modest investments to grow significantly over the years. Seeking the guidance of a financial advisor can also prove invaluable in tailoring an investment strategy.

3. Starting a Savings Account for Your Child

One essential strategy for securing your child’s financial future as a single parent is to begin a dedicated savings account. This proactive approach lays the groundwork for their financial stability, providing a safety net for their education, milestones, and other expenses, such as  holidays for single parents. These are often much needed when you are solo parenting and need a break to recharge your batteries in order to keep mentally and physically healthy in the long term.

When setting up a savings account for your child, it is essential to consider various precautions to ensure their financial security:

• Research financial institutions: Look for reputable banks or credit unions that offer savings accounts specifically designed for minors. Choose a financial institution with strong security measures and a reliable track record.
• Limit access: Opt for an account structure that limits withdrawal access until your child reaches a certain age. This precaution prevents unauthorized or impulsive withdrawals and promotes disciplined saving.
• Regular monitoring: Keep a close eye on the account statements, transactions, and any changes to account terms. Regularly reviewing the account activity helps detect any discrepancies or unauthorized actions promptly.
• Understand KYC regulations: Know Your Customer (KYC) regulations are crucial to safeguarding your child’s savings. Ensure you follow all required documentation and identification procedures while opening the account. It not only protects your child’s account from unauthorized access but also ensures compliance with legal requirements.

According to AU10TIX, KYC verification starts with determining the customer’s identity, both digitally and physically. The regulated party performs checks to confirm personally identifiable information (PI) such as names and identification numbers like social security numbers, date of birth, facial biometrics, physical attributes, and address.

To understand KYC’s best practices and their application in protecting children’s savings accounts, you can refer to AU10TIX’s guide. It offers valuable insights for single parents in the US to navigate KYC procedures effectively, ensuring their children’s financial interests are safeguarded.

By initiating a savings account for your child, you are setting them up for a more secure financial future. It is a powerful step toward ensuring they have the resources to thrive and succeed as they journey through life.

4. Insurance Coverage and Estate Planning

Adequate insurance serves as a safety net, protecting both parent and child from unforeseen financial burdens. Life insurance plays a pivotal role in ensuring that children’s needs are met, in the event of a single parent’s death. For solo parents this means ensuring your children have the necessary financial support to cover expenses, such as education, daily living costs, and future aspirations.

Single mothers often bear the sole financial responsibility for their children. This is highlighted by LIMRA and Life Happens data of 2023, according to which 59% of single moms express the need for life insurance coverage or additional protection to ensure their children’s financial future.

In addition to life insurance, estate planning is another crucial element of a holistic financial strategy. Estate planning allows single parents to outline their wishes for asset distribution and guardianship arrangements. It assures that their children’s best interests are safeguarded in any eventuality.

5. Education Planning and College Savings

As education costs continue to rise, planning becomes vital to ensure children have access to quality education without burdening them with excessive student loans. Single parents in the US can start by exploring various education savings options, such as 529 college savings plans or Education Savings Accounts (ESAs). These accounts offer tax advantages and can be tailored to suit individual preferences and risk tolerance.

There are many ways of saving money as a single parent. By beginning to save early, even with small contributions, the power of compounding can substantially impact the final amount saved for education expenses. Do involve your children in the process. Teach them about the importance of education and the value of saving for their future. Empower your children by prioritizing education planning and college savings and teaching them about the importance of pursuing higher education, which will lead to a more prosperous and fulfilling future.

6. Building a Strong Credit Profile

A strong credit history gives access to improved borrowing options, lower interest rates, and enhanced financial flexibility for single parents. It enables them to secure credit when required and confidently make significant investments in their children’s future.

Maintaining a good payment history by consistently paying bills and debts on time is fundamental to building a positive credit profile, which, in turn, is crucial in the event that you wish to obtain a personal loan, apply for a mortgage, rent a property, or even apply for a job. In 2023, CNBC published an article quoting a report from HR.com, sponsored by the National Association of Background Screeners (NABS). The report revealed that 95% of companies conduct background checks on prospective employees. Among these, 16% perform credit or financial checks on all candidates, while nearly one third conduct such checks on specific applicants.

By prioritizing responsible credit management, single parents can create a strong financial foundation, benefiting both themselves and their children in pursuing a secure and prosperous future.

To Conclude

Navigating the path of single parenthood while securing your children’s financial future may seem challenging, but with the right advice and planning, it can become an achievable and rewarding journey. By implementing essential financial strategies, single parents can build a robust financial framework.

Through dedication, resilience, and informed decision-making, single parents can provide their children with a stable and prosperous future filled with opportunities to thrive and succeed. Embracing these pieces of advice is a testament to single parents’ unwavering love and commitment, ensuring that their children’s financial well-being remains safeguarded for generations to come.

About us: 

Single Parents on Holiday is a niche tour operator based in the UK. We offer group holidays for single parents and their children in Europe. In addition, our holiday programme includes a selection of singles holidays for the over 50s for anyone travelling without kids.

Whilst we all agree that having children brings us much joy and excitement, with parenthood comes great lifelong responsibility. Children need to be clothed, fed, nurtured, and guided. Sadly, many single parents have no support from another parent, which can leave them to worry over their children’s future, especially should anything happen to them, their only parent.

None of us want to think of that worst case scenario, least of all single parents, but planning ahead is a necessity if you want to ensure your children have the best start in life. Single Parents on Holiday have written up some practical tips on how solo parents can safeguard their children’s future, helping them to plan for every eventuality so they can rest assured that their children are always supported.

How to leave your children safe and secure – practical tips for single parents:

Sometimes the unexpected happens and not every parent is able to see their kids grow up. While we all hope to be around long after our children reach adulthood, it’s important to make sure your children are safe and supported should you pass away before they’re fully independent.

Taking out life insurance

Life insurance can help to ensure that your children will have enough money to pay inheritance tax on your estate, continue their education, or that guardians can take care of your children’s medical needs, take them on holidays, and much more. Life insurance policies typically pay out a lump sum of money to the person you name as your beneficiary. If your children are the named beneficiaries, it is important that you appoint one or more trustees who you trust are able to look after the money until your children reach the age at which you would like them to receive the lumpsum. This can be 18 years of age or older.

There are lots of different life insurance policies out there. If you want to ensure that your children don’t have to move out of their family home, you could take out a decreasing term life insurance. This means that in the event of your death the remaining mortgage will be paid off. Once you have paid off your mortgage, the cover ends. Because the value of any potential pay-out decreases as your children grow older and you pay off more of your mortgage, this type of cover is often cheaper than standard life insurance. If you are keen for your children and their appointed guardian to continue living in your home, it is worth noting that if the property is worth more than £500,000, your children will pay inheritance tax, in which case you need to ensure there is money in your estate to do so.

Writing a will

While life insurance can take care of your children’s financial future, you still need to deal with the matter of guardianship. If there is no other parent who is able and willing to take care of your children, and/or if you want to avoid an estranged parent or family member top gain custody, it is vitally important to have a will in place that names a guardian of your choice for your children. If you don’t leave a will, a court will decide for you. This can cause family feuds but more importantly, cause your children unnecessary grief in an already traumatic situation. Naming a guardian in your will and discussing this with all parties concerned not only will this give you peace of mind, but it will also reduce family disputes later.

Naturally, a will can also help secure your children’s financial future if you have assets to pass on to them. If you don’t have a will, and have no partner, then your assets will be inherited by your children in equal shares. However, certain scenarios could lead to your children missing out if you do not execute a will, and probate support service professionals are experts in this kind of situation. If you have a new partner, for example, that partner would inherit before your children do. They might then remarry and/or have more children, and/or spend the money before they die, meaning your children inherit little or nothing.

Setting up a trust for your child

If your child is going to inherit assets or money, it is worth setting up a trust that they can access when they’re 18 (or older if that is your preference). This will mean that their money is safe and may also be exempt from inheritance tax. You could even set up a trust that pays your child a set amount each month. It can be a risk giving a young person a large amount of money, especially if they don’t have much experience with budgeting. Alternatively, if you want the money to be used for education, you may be able to stipulate this in the terms of the trust. Equally, if your guardian may need help paying for the children’s school fees, larger purchases, family holidays, medical bills, etc. money can be paid out if it is used for the child’s benefit.

Saving money for their future

One of the best ways to support your children in the future is to start saving money for them. While your will and life insurance will help them in the event of your death, a savings account will serve your kids well even if you are still around to offer your support.

Many parents put money aside for their children, but opening an account in your child’s name could afford you much better rates of interest than a savings account does. A Junior ISA is a great way of putting money away for your children. You can currently (tax year 2023/24) pay up to £9,000 a year into a Junior ISA, which will give your children a decent interest rate and tax-free returns.

No matter how little money you have, if you invest wisely, your kids might have a nest egg that will help them buy their first car, help with their education, or even get them onto the property ladder. That is why it is also worth considering opening an investment ISA for your children. While the world of investments can be volatile, there’s a chance that your kids could make some serious gains from birth until they are 18. Investments often work best when they’re made over a long period of time and can have much higher returns than savings, which may depreciate due to inflation depending on the interest rate. However, because investments could result in your children having less money than you paid in, it’s always best to pair them with savings to spread your risk.

There are many ways of saving money as a single parent even if you struggle with everyday bills. Don’t put saving off. Instead of getting lots of unwanted toys, why not ask relatives and friends to pay some of your children’s birthday and Christmas money into your children’s savings account or ISA?

Ensuring that their children are safe, supported, and secure in the future is any parent’s wish. Yet it is especially important to single parents whose number one priority is their children, yet who often have more limited resources. Whatever your situation is, following one or all our practical tips on how to protect your children’s future will leave your kids safer and more secure. Don’t hesitate – you have all the necessary skills to make it happen – family budgeting strategies, time management skills, social contacts.

About the author: 

Single Parents on Holiday is the number 1 tour operator in the UK for single parent group holidays. We have provided fully-organised holiday packages for single mums and dads and their children since 2005. In addition, we have recently added single travel deals to our portfolio because many of our customers now have grown up kids but want to continue travelling with us. This is why we now offer solo group holidays for single travellers without kids.

If someone had asked you about digital media before having children, you would most likely have said that your kids won’t own digital devices until the age of at least 12. You would also have launched into a tirade about how children’s young brains can’t fully grasp the rules of being digital citizens.

Fast forward ten years or so, and you have kids that are practically attached to their digital devices, not least because they need them to do their homework and studies. You might also want your children to feel socially connected and allow them to use smartphones and tablets to stay in touch with friends. You are aware that screens have become a part of your children’s lives, and you tell them to be cautious when they browse the Internet. But it’s easy to forget for parents, especially single parents who are juggling children, work, and household chores solo, to teach the little ones just how dangerous the digital universe is – until bad things happen.

7 Tips to keep the kids safe online

Keeping your kids safe online starts with teaching them how to be digital citizens from a young age. Here are our top tips on how to get started:

1. Spend time together online

Your children talk all day about the things they like, and that includes popular TV shows, and favourite online games. Use this as a starting point to identify an online activity you could do together. While playing an online game or watching a TV series, use that opportunity to discuss online safety. Ask them questions about their best-loved online games and websites and show enthusiasm about engaging in the activities they find interesting to determine how they behave online. This will make it easier to talk about online security with them.

The Internet offers countless opportunities to have fun with your child and spend quality time together, so play their favourite games, travel the world from your living room or cheer them on while they play them with their friends. Getting involved with their online activities gives you the opportunity to monitor their online experience.

2. Watch online safety tutorials with your kids

If you don’t know how to start a conversation about online security with your children, you can watch a short video together and discuss the issues presented. You can find several resources online for children of all ages. For children younger than 7, you can watch cartoons together that provide an introduction to online safety. Older kids can watch animations and even play games that will teach kids the basic principles of cyber security.

Making your children aware of the cyber threats lurking online is crucial. When you choose tutorials to watch together, search for content that discusses topics, such as online bullying, spending money without permission, grooming, potential scams, messaging people they don’t know, and even how to avoid seeing things that might upset them. Ensure you discuss the topic presented in the tutorial with them to find out if they have further questions and fully understand the dangers and consequences for victims of bullying, scams, etc. If you need more information about online threats, you can access resources like https://www.databreachcompensationexpert.co.uk/data-breach-compensation/ that offer data not only about online threats but also about how to deal with the consequences of a data breach.

3. Establish rules around accessing digital devices

One crucial rule to establish is that your children should always ask for permission before using a digital device or going online, as they would if they wanted to visit a friend’s house. By asking them to get permission first, you send a message – namely, that their screen time is monitored.

Besides this rule, you can establish several other ones that suit your family’s dynamic. You could, for example, ask them to use internet-connected devices only in the common rooms, such as the lounge and kitchen rather than taking smartphones and tablets to their rooms. If they do need to access the Internet to do their homework, you can allow them to use their smart devices in their rooms for specific activities like reading, but if they want to chat online with their friends or play games, they have to do it in a common area. It might sound intrusive, but it’s similar to managing real-life playdates when you would pop in from time to time to bring them snacks and ensure they are fine.

4. Set time limits

If your children need screens to do certain activities, make sure you have rules on the length of time they are allowed to use internet-connected devices. You can set time limits on most digital devices either through settings or through a parental control software or an apps.

Similarly, if you need to entertain them while working from home, but want to control their activity, start a TV show for them, and take the remote control, so they cannot switch programmes or start scrolling through YouTube on the TV. You would be surprised how quickly  even young kids can figure out how to  navigate the menu.

5. Teach your children to be suspicious

The Internet is a great source of information and can be very educational for children. Unfortunately, it also exposes children to a great amount of false and often disturbing information. Everyone can post what they like on the Internet and your children and teenagers must be aware that not everything they read or hear online is true. It’s crucial to teach your kids the ability to differentiate between accurate and false information. They also need to be able to spot which sources are reliable, which ones are likely biased, and which ones are there to spread false information, negativity, hatred, etc. Sit down with them, do a Google search, and ask them which sites they think give them accurate answers. Point out to them which sites are reliable and which ones likely are not. Don’t forget to warn them that off ads, too-good-to-be-true offers and free online activities for kids that contain in app purchases and add-ons that cost money. Ask them to never to purchase products or services without asking for an adult’s approval first.

6. Determine what you are comfortable with

Have a think about what you are comfortable and not comfortable with in terms of your children’s online activities, so you can establish clear rules. For example, if you want to make sure that the kids don’t engage with strangers, carefully select the apps they can access. You can sign up for kids’ apps that require an adult to review and approve any chat they might have to join when the other party isn’t part of your pre-approved contact list. You might also not be comfortable with your children using platforms like YouTube because inappropriate content can easily slip through, even on YouTube Kids. Limit their use of particular websites and apps and ask them to use them only in common areas.

7. Get your kids to think about their online behaviour

Because we all feel more anonymous when they browse the Internet, your children might not behave in the same way as they would in the real world. Talk to your kids about this, so they can understand that they should engage with Internet users as they would in the real world i.e. treating everyone with kindness and respect.

Final thoughts:

Monitoring screen time and online activities is no easy task in today’s digital world. Parents carry a huge responsibility raising children in today’s environment, and educating their children on the opportunities and dangers of the Internet is just one of many tasks they need to deal master. We hope our tips on how to teach children to stay safe online and become responsible digital citizens have helped a little!

About the author – Single Parents on Holiday:

Single Parents on Holiday is the only UK tour operator offering single parent group holidays in the UK and abroad. In addition, we also provide singles holidays for our single parent empty nesters, single parents who want to have a break and travel without the kids and any  other solo travellers. These holidays are exclusively for adults. For more information go to singles holidays over 50.

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Travelling with a baby can be stressful, but with proper preparation, it can be a smooth and enjoyable experience, even if you are doing it solo. In the first weeks of baby’s life, you are probably thinking that surely going on holiday can’t be worth the hassle – all the items you will need to pack for baby, when you barely manage to go to the corner shop without forgetting a crucial item! Well, the good news is, over time things get easier, and you and your little one develop a routine.

All the travel essentials for your holiday with baby:

 To make sure that you remember to pack all the must-have baby travel items for your first single parent holiday, we have made a list for you:

Baby travel gear

These items are usually the heaviest and will take up the most space, yet some of them are essential. Your baby’s age will dictate which ones you will need to take and which ones you can do without. You will need to check if your airline will let you carry them and if so, if there is a cost associated with it. Prams and car seats are usually checked in for free but do check with your airline. You will usually also have to book the item in as bulk luggage. Here is the baby gear you should consider taking on holiday:

• compact pram or pushchair
• car seat
• soft baby carrier/sling (essential if you need to give up your pram at check in)

If you are still using a large pram, consider buying a pushchair for the journey. Don’t forget, you can use this later when your little one is bigger. Don’t get tempted to borrow one if you are flying as such items often get damaged in transit. A pram or pushchair, in which the baby can sit up, can also double up as a high chair and a rear facing car seat can be used as an infant carrier/baby bouncer on holiday.

Baby mealtimes

Always make sure to pack enough formula for the trip if your baby is bottle-fed, as you do not want to run out abroad! Changing the formula of your infant on holiday is not something you want to risk in case baby does not like other brands or develops a reaction to them. Buy sterilising tablets as you won’t have your steriliser with you and consider buying a bottle warmer/cooler. Don’t forget to pack bottles, a bottle brush, and any other feeding equipment your child may require. Here is a list of essentials you need to take for baby’s mealtimes:

• formula (plenty!)
• bottles
• bottle brush
• sterilising tablets
• botte warmer/cooler
• muslin squares
• bibs
• dummies if you use them

if your child already has solids / drinks from a cup:

• travel spoon and bowl
• baby food pouches for the journey plus some as snacks (better than fragile/heavy jars)
• baby snacks (lots to keep her entertained)
• baby sippy cup if used

if you are breastfeeding:

• cover-up
• nipple cream

If you are considering buying formula abroad, be sure to do your research before you leave, so that you know which brands are safe, and which products might have potential risks associated with them, such as those highlighted in a baby formula lawsuit recently brought against a major formula company. The lawsuit alleged that the company’s formula caused severe gastroenteritis in infants.

If you are still breastfeeding, then you are saving on luggage here: Just pack a cover-up and nipple cream if needed.

Baby changing essentials

If you want to save yourself the hassle of locating a supermarket on arrival and trying to find nappies the right size (considering the language barrier and the different brands offered abroad), pack enough nappies to last the entire holiday. Make sure to put plenty of them into your hand luggage. Needless to say, you will need a nappy-changing pad and plastic bags for soiled nappies in your hand luggage. All in all, you should pack:

• nappies for the journey and the holiday
• wipes
• nappy bags
• changing bag with changing mat
• nappy rash cream
• hand sanitiser

Change of clothes for the journey

Don’t forget to pack at least two sets of baby grows and/or other spare baby clothes in your hand luggage in case of spills or accidents while travelling. And as silly as it sounds, pack some easy-to-change clothes for yourself, in case an accident spills onto your clothes – not that unlikely if you are flying long haul with kids and baby travels on your lap. Also remember that she might get chilly passing through train stations or airports. Make sure your little one is wrapped up warm when it gets draughty and bring a spare blanket along.

Weather specific items on holiday

For the holiday itself, it is important to keep baby protected from the elements, be that the sun, the wind, or the cold. To protect your little one’s skin from the strong sun in the mountains or at the beach, for example, you should consider taking the following:

• several sun hats that shade the eyes and cover the neck
• a beach tent for extra shade
• a sun cover for your pushchair
• long sleeved UV clothes
• sun lotion

Baby travel toys

Even if baby is still little, chances are you will need to entertain her for a good few hours whether you are driving, taking the train, a coach, or are flying. Whilst car journeys can sooth and send young children to sleep, plane journeys often cause tears due to the change in cabin pressure. Bring some toys and books with you that you know will keep your baby’s attention for a little while. There are some great holiday travel toys on the market, including many portable ones that can be clipped onto your baby’s pushchair to ensure it can’t get lost.

Bedtime essentials

We all know that babies like routine, so if you want a good night’s sleep on holiday, bring those items that are part of your baby’s bedtime routine and try to follow the same bedtime routine, for example having a bath, bottle whilst reading a story, before putting her to bed to the same music as at home. You will need to pack:

• books
• baby’s night light
• favourite comforter or cuddly toy
• musical soft toy
• baths accessories if needed

Most of these items are small but can make all the difference if you want your baby to sleep well, so these should be essential baby travel items.

Emergency contact information

Even if your baby is healthy, it may be advisable to check where the nearest doctor, pharmacy and hospital are and carry emergency contact information with you in case your little one becomes unwell. If your child has any allergies or medical concerns, it will be worth bringing a copy of your baby’s medical records and of course an EpiPen.

Travel first aid kit

It’s absolutely worth putting together a basic travel first aid kit for baby so that you do not have to stress about finding a pharmacy or doctor at the first signs of your child sniffling. Unfortunately there is a good chance of baby catching a cold from the changes in temperature/climate you will experience travelling as well as the air conditioning blasting on planes and in many hotels. First aid kit items for baby should include:

• thermometer
• basal aspirator
• saline nasal spray
• infant paracetamol
• nail clippers
• tweezers
• disinfecting wipes or spray
• zinc-based nappy cream
• antihistamines if baby is over 6 months old

Naturally, your baby needs its own passport. If you are planning to take your little one on holiday, you have probably already applied for a child passport. Remember however that if you are a single parent travelling solo, or even if you have a partner not accompanying you, you will need permission from the other parent to travel abroad. Ideally you should take the baby’s birth certificate as proof of your relationship with your child and the consent of your partner or ex-partner. Going on holiday without these documents is a risk as both your airline and border control might prevent you from continuing your journey.

Last but not least, never travel without insurance. You should take out a policy at the latest after you have booked your holiday to protect you in the case of one of you falling sick and being unable to travel, medical expenses or theft whilst away, flight cancellations, and more.

Summary

In conclusion, the more you pack, the more comfortable and ‘at home’ baby will feel, meaning a more relaxing holiday for you. Yet packing everything and the kitchen sink is not practical. Which items you will be able to do without depends on your destination and the age and personality of your baby. Don’t forget to check if your accommodation  has essential travel items, such as a pushchair, bottle warmer, etc. that you can borrow or rent for your holiday – many hotels and cottages now provide more than just cots and high chairs for parents’ convenience. You could also hire some baby travel items, such as a car seat if you don’t have one but need it for your journey. In addition, you can buy many baby travel items in a more compact travel size, so they don’t take up as much space. We hope our list of baby travel essentials has helped you with planning your first holiday with baby!

About the author:

Single Parents on Holiday provide fully-organised single parent group holidays for single mums and dads and their children. In addition, we also organise singles holidays over 50 for single parent empty nesters and anyone else travelling solo without kids.

Whether it’s the terrible twos, the pressures of school, or their moody years as a teenager, anyone who has ever been a parent will tell you, it is never easy raising children. This is especially true for single parents, who do not have the benefit of a partner at home from whom which they can draw regular strength, support, or respite from. However, the lack of a significant other, doesn’t mean that being a single mum or single dad cannot be a very rewarding experience. Admittedly though, going it alone will mean adopting some strategies to make life a little easier.

Effective strategies for  raising your kids alone without single parent stress

While all children are different and there is no right or wrong way for bringing them up, every parent – single or not – can provide a safe, loving, and caring environment for their kids to grow up in. To help you do this, here are our top 10 tips for raising a child as a single parent:

1. Develop a routine

There is a lot to manage in a single parent household, not least school and/or nursery runs, homework, cooking, cleaning, washing, bath times and putting the kids to sleep – in addition to holding down a job.

As a single parent it is important to be super organised and to forward plan, as this can save you a lot of time and stress. Preparing healthy family meals when you have little time can be a challenge and it’s all too easy to open a tin of beans or grab a freezer pizza. The best way to avoid falling into the trap of serving ready meals, is to pre-plan dinner for the week ahead and even preparing some meals in advance. As is doing a little bit of cleaning every day – as opposed to all-in-one go, which might seem overwhelming when the time comes to do it. Be sure also to do things like making the school lunches and getting your work clothes and your children’s uniforms ready the night before, as this will enable you to be less rushed off your feet the next morning.

It is not just you that should have a routine, children thrive on it too as anyone who ever had a baby knows. By routine we also mean that you try and make sure the kids do their homework at a specific time, as well as any other chores. Give each of them responsibility, whether it’s laying the table or feeding their pets, and increase their chores with age. It will give them a sense of achievement and help you out enormously – especially as they get older.

Also, allow them to have regular down time or play time, at the same time every day, as well as quality mummy or daddy time too. Try and establish a regular going to bed and getting ready in the morning routine, too. All of this will create a regular pattern of behaviour that your child will be able to identify with, adhere to and ultimately benefit from.

2. Find good childcare

As much as many of us would love to spend all day with our children, this is often not practical, especially when you are a single parent with work commitments. So, there will be a time when you need to consider childcare. But even those single parents who don’t work, will undoubtedly consider childcare a godsend, as it gives them much needed time to recharge their batteries, go to doctor’s appointments, go food shopping, and catch up on housework, without having to worry about keeping the kids occupied at the same time. This in turn, frees them up to spend quality time with the children during the remainder of the day.

It is worth exploring all the different childcare options and weighing them up in terms of suitability, location, and cost. If you are looking for a nursery, proximity to home or work will save you precious time. You might also have certain ideas about how your children are taught during those important early years. Maybe you love the Montessori concept or you are intrigued by the explicit teaching method. Whatever you choose, be sure to visit any childcare facilities with your little ones, so you can both get a feeling of the place and its staff. Alternatively, you could employ a childminder to take the kids to nursery, school, and after school clubs. You might even want to consider becoming a registered childminder yourself if you are currently not working and are looking for a source of income whilst still being able to look after your own kids.

At the end of the day, childcare is all about finding someone you can trust to look after them in an environment where your kids feel comfortable. Some parents might feel mummy or daddy guilt when they send their children to be looked after by someone else, but you must remember that many parents do the same out of necessity. Also don’t forget, it’s a fairly safe bet that your child will actually have a great time with their new friends.

3. Utilise after school care

If you are lucky enough (or have chosen wisely) and your children’s school offers a breakfast and/or after school club, use it! As a working single parent, you might even be given priority as places are often sought-after. Some schools also offer after school clubs that will playfully teach your kids a range of skills whilst providing an extra hour of much-needed childcare. Extra-curricular learning activities can be Lego club, arts and crafts clubs, football and tennis.

4. Build a support system

Not having a partner around to raise the kids with, is tough. Of course, many single parents have an ex who sees the kids regularly and helps out with some of the extra-curricular activities. Yet statistically it is likely that the single parent who lives with the children most of the time will bear the brunt of the daily juggle that is drop offs and pickups, homework, and household chores – all in addition to their own work commitments. To ensure that perfectly crafted daily schedule works even when there are unforeseen events, it makes sense to have a backup plan.

A support system of other adults you can rely on for assistance, as and when you need it, is really important when you are a single parent. This could be family or friends, other parents from your child’s school, neighbours, members of your church, or trusted babysitters. Having a group of people like this on hand to help you, when you need to stay late at the office, have a lot of chores you want to do without distraction, or simply need a break, will not only benefit you, but also your children too. Not least because it will show them, they have people who care for and support them beyond their mum or dad.

5. Develop healthy habits

Something that is so easy to overlook but so very important is the need to develop healthy habits in our everyday lives and to lead by example. Trying to ensure you eat healthy food, get plenty of exercise and good solid sleep on a regular basis is important for any individual, but especially single parents raising children alone. Being sick or lacking energy is not an option, not even with the best network.

Healthy habits should involve the whole family and include eating meals together, brushing teeth after mealtimes, avoiding sugary or fatty snacks and drinks, limiting screen time, exercising, and good solid sleep every night are all good healthy habits that will benefit both parents and children. Don’t forget that kids learn by watching others, so provide a good example for them to follow, which, in turn, will help to set them up for keeping a healthy lifestyle throughout their lifetime.

6. Let the kids help

As a single parent there is a lot to do. So, don’t try and be a hero and do it all yourself. Instead, try and enlist the help of your children if you can, and more importantly, if they want to, as this will not only provide a bonding experience, but also ensure you have less on your plate.

Depending on their age, some of the chores you can assign your children could be hanging up the laundry, putting the dirty dishes in the dishwasher, tidying up their bedroom and even help prepare some elements of dinner, even if it’s just laying the table. If you are honest with children and tell them you need help, the chances are they will be happy to do so, especially when they are young. Explain that they are part of the family and as such they have a responsibility. You can also tell them that you’ll have more time to play or hang out once all the chores have been completed.

7. Make time for holidays

Something you should always strive to do, whatever your budget, is to go on holiday. Whether that’s going away with your kids or on your own, a short weekend getaway or a few weeks abroad – whatever works to recharge your batteries and fits your budget.A single parent holiday will enable you to spend real quality time together as a family and make memories the kids will cherish for the rest of their lives.

If you are able to go away on your own once a year, even better. A solo trip with other singles or single parents where you can relax, discover new places  together and share a glass of wine and dinner in like minded company,  will do wonders for your mental and physical health. If you are keen to be with solo travellers your own age, find a break aimed at your age group, such as singles holidays for the over 50s. This will ensure that you meet lots of interesting people in the same or a similar life situation.

8. Spend quality time with your kids

Spending quality time with your children is very important, and it is something you should do every day. It is not really the length of time that matters, more the experience of what you do with them, that is crucial. That said, if you can, you should aim to spend some quality time with your children every day. Be mindful though, that during this time, it is important to do what they want you to do.

So, embrace your inner child and have some fun watching TV, playing sports in the garden, baking cupcakes, painting, drawing and generally hanging out with them. If you are worried about any areas of their development, you could even suggest some ideas to help your kids learn through play. Spending quality time with your children will undoubtedly enrich the lives of both you and your kids.

9. Try and become financially secure

Easier said than done for many of course, however the sooner you can become financially secure the better for your mental and physical health. Not having to worry about your finances and being able to afford nice things for yourself or your children, is a wonderful feeling. The first couple of years after separation or divorce might be tough, as are the years when you pass a chunk of your hard-earned salary on to the childminder. But the budgeting strategies single parents have to apply so often will pay off and you will recover financially in due course and that is when you can start to put money aside for much needed renovations, holidays, pension, etc. So never give up, achieving financial independence as a single parent is absolutely possible.

10. Don’t neglect yourself

As a parent, especially a single parent, putting your child’s needs before your own comes with the territory. However, you should never lose sight of the fact that you are human and have needs of your own that should be met. So be sure to take the time to practice self-care, and don’t be afraid to go out with friends and treat yourself every now and then to a massage or some pampering. After all, it stands to reason, that the more you look after yourself, the more you will be able to look after and provide for your children.

Whatever you do, don’t look for perfection. Set yourself realistic goals and maybe a family motto if you fancy the idea. But don’t despair if you cannot achieve every single thing, you set out to do each week. If you adopt a positive “can do” mindset, you have made a big leap towards the finishing line. Just keep trying to de-stress and declutter your life, never hesitate to ask for help, and adapt your parenting style to your and the children’s needs. There is no perfect way of raising a child as a single parent.

Have you ever wondered why you’ve gained weight after having children? Has it just crept up gradually without you ever overeating? The two main reasons busy parents gain weight is that they eat more convenience and fast foods and exercise less than before parenthood. This makes perfect sense, especially for single parents, who, lacking the luxury of time and another adult to mind the kids, are often unable to cook healthy meals from scratch, let alone follow an exercise regime.

It may take a few adjustments to your routine, but we can help you and your family on your journey back to healthy eating without adding any stress to your already busy life. Read our tips and tricks, and soon you will rustle up healthy family meals in no time:

Time is of the essence

Many parents say they simply don’t have the time to prepare a meal from scratch after a long day of running around doing chores, school run, and work. Yet cooking at home can help you lose weight since the meals you prepare are generally healthier than convenience and fast foods and the portions smaller than fast food and restaurant fare. It is also less expensive which many parents will be happy to hear.

Coming home and cooking something healthy or fresh after a long day may seem overwhelming, but it’s easier than you think. So, here are some fast and easy tips to help you prepare healthy and versatile family meals at home even when there is little time…

Plan your meals

Planning the week’s meals and going grocery shopping for the ingredients in your meal plan is a vital first step in achieving a healthy eating plan. That way, you will have all of the ingredients you’ll need at the ready, and you won’t have to worry about picking what to eat each night – it will be pre-planned!

Keep it simple

You are not required to prepare a four-course dinner. What is often beneficial, can also be simple. Think about it: A salad is easier to make than fried chicken, and grilled chicken is easier to prepare than lasagne. Simply aim for a healthy balance of protein, fruits, and veggies, with minimal fats and carbohydrates.

For those sugar cravings when you feel you need something sweet, keep some healthy snacks at home, so you don’t get tempted by the unhealthy! Snacks such as a banana, a handful of cashew nuts, some dried fruit, hummus, or even vegan Nutella will satisfy your sweet tooth without destroying your good intentions.

Cook in advance

You will undoubtedly save time by making more food than your family will need and reheating it later in the week or the month. Some parents devote one day a month to preparing entire meals and storing them in their freezers, ensuring that they and their children have nutritious, homemade food to eat throughout the month with no work. If this sounds a bit extreme, you could try to cook for the week ahead, or even simpler: Cook double portions, so that you can serve the same or similar meal again later in the week.

You might want to add a twist, such as a salad side or a different topping. Preprepared salad mixes will be the quickest solution. Just beware of  the dangers of listeriosis in packaged salads. Cooking in advance is a terrific way to save money, and of course it means your kids eat healthier as you can incorporate more vegetables into your family’s diet! Below are some easy methods to prepare supper for a week:

Use a Crock-Pot

They’ve made a resurgence and are an excellent addition to any balanced diet. Crock pots, also known as slow cookers, are popular these days since they allow you to add a few ingredients in the morning and return home to the delectable scent of a dinner – ready to serve.

Crockpots or slow cookers are fantastic for parents who just have a few minutes in the morning and want to return home to a ready-to-eat supper, but they are limited in what you can create with them – they’re best used for soups and stews, but they may also be used to cook chicken.

Try an Instant Pot

The Instant Pot, on the other hand, is a cross between a crockpot and a pressure cooker and can be used to produce a variety of recipes.  Its pressure cooker function speeds up cooking by six times, yet it can often also be used as a rice or slow cooker, steamer, etc. You can also set a timer, which is great for families who want to come home to a ready made dinner. Naturally, it is becoming increasingly popular over the last five or six years.

Invest in a food processor with a difference

If you hate chopping vegetables and washing up countless cooking accessories, consider buying a food processor. If you want to push the boat out, invest in a Thermomix, which shows you recipes, weighs your ingredients, chops up the veggies, fries or boils them and, if desired, purees the lot, so you have a hearty lovely soup without ever having to get the food scales, the knives or pots and pans out. This machine can also knead dough, boil eggs, make ice cream, and much more.  The price tag is hefty, but if you want to save space and time, it’s a godsend.

A few more time saving tips

Once you get into the practice of eating more nutritious meals at home, you may find that you can prepare a healthy family meal in fifteen minutes or less – roughly the time it would take you to grab a takeaway and less time than going and waiting in a sit-down restaurant. If this still feels too stressful, here are some extra suggestions to help:

Enlist help

Whether you are a parent or a single parent, assign tasks to your children! Cooking with kids can be fun, but there are plenty of other chores that your children can help with, such as chopping the vegetables, loading the dishwasher, and cleaning the kitchen up after a dinner. It won’t seem so daunting when you know there are several pairs of hands helping. Put some music on and see how much you can do as a group before the conclusion of a song or two.

Lay the table the night before

Before going to bed, set the table for the next day. It will only take a few minutes this way, and those minutes will be spent while you aren’t hungry and attempting to prepare dinner for several hungry kids. To make it more fun and save even more time, use plastic dinnerware with colors to fit your mood.

Prepare the veggies

Wash and cut up your meat and veggies for your evening meal in advance and store them in separate sealed containers. You can do the same with fresh herbs or even your kids’ school snacks.

Hopefully, these suggestions will assist you in breaking free from your unhealthy eating habits and establishing a new healthy eating regimen. If you follow these tips, you will soon find, that you can prepare meals in 15 minutes, without any stress. The rewards are plentiful: Whether you are looking to get your beach body back for your next single parent holiday, improve your health and that of your kids, or lower your cost of living by planning meals ahead, there are countless benefits to learning how to prepare healthy family meals when you have little time.

Single Parent Podcasts not to miss in 2022:

Raising kids is the most challenging job in the world, but also the most important one you will ever have. So, when you are doing it all alone, the pressure is huge and it’s no surprise many single parents feel overwhelmed by it all. First off, you struggle with coming to terms with the loss of your relationship through separation, divorce, or bereavement. Then you have to settle into new surroundings, adjust to  new family dynamics and somewhere along the lines find time for yourself – just to stay sane.

Becoming a single parent probably wasn’t part of your life plan. Our podcasters struggled with depression, loneliness, and self-doubt before coming out the other side. Their podcasts are a great tonic when you feel in need of a bit of motivation and encouragement – best of all,  as a busy parent, you can listen to them whilst you do other stuff.

We have handpicked some of the best single parent podcasts in 2022 for you. Listen to other mums and dads as they share their parenting ups and downs, their suggestions, and solutions for a whole host of single parenting challenges and their positivity! So, without further ado, here are our favourite podcasts for single parents:

1. Single Parent Podcast

The Single Parent Podcast is hosted by two single mums based in the US, Christina Monai and Christina Paling. The namesakes chat to each other about different topics concerning single parents. They also invite fellow single mums onto the show to discuss issues they have experienced while navigating single parenthood.

Their primary goal is to support single parents and build a community where single parents can share their stories and thrive. This podcast is very informative and is a useful resource for a variety of topics. Each episode offers insightful information, encouragement, and practical solutions.

Frequency: weekly on average
Duration: usually between 45 and 80 minutes

2. Single Mother Survival Guide

Julia Hasche became a single parent when her daughter was only a few months old. She is based in Australia and has been a single mum since 2013. Her podcast and her website are designed to help and support newly single mums through the challenges they are facing because of their new circumstances.

Her Single Mother Survival Guide podcast includes a variety of interesting guests, including a wills and estate lawyer, a financial advisor, an online safety expert, and many more. The goal is to give single mothers everywhere the resources and tools to manage their everyday lives and plan for their and their children’s future. This could be day-to-day money management, as well as making savings.

Hasche also talks with life coaches, parenting experts, and family lawyers on her show. She discusses domestic violence, child support, the benefits of being a single parent, single parent travel, and successful co-parenting.

Frequency: usually weekly
Duration: anything from 15 minutes to 1 h 45

3. Happy Single Mom

Khalifa Araba is a British single mum of a 10-year-old boy. She has a law degree, a Master’s in Human Rights and Social Justice and worked for the Ministry of Justice in the UK before starting her own business and her own single parent podcast.

Having overcome severe depression as a single parent, Khalifa shares her journey to happiness in her podcast Happy Single Mom. Her goal is to help single parents find happiness and fulfilment; hence her guests are mostly people who have either transformed their own lives or are in a profession that aims to transform lives. These are domestic violence survivors, parenting or life coaches, dating experts, single parent authors, and so on.

She doesn’t shy away from difficult topics, such as discussing the whereabouts of daddy, single parent sex life, loneliness, and self-doubt. Each episode has its own unique and hard-hitting topic that asks and answers fundamental questions and brings a different perspective to single motherhood from guests that express their own views and perspectives on any given topics.

Frequency: 4 or 5 posts per month
Duration: between 25 and 50 minutes

4. Good Moms Bad Choices

This is not your everyday podcast, but rather an inspirational, soul-filling, motherhood affirming podcast for all mothers, not just single mums. Good Moms Bad Choices is hosted by Erica and Milah, two Los Angeles based modern-day mothers discussing parenthood and its challenges in a norm-driven modern world.

Erica and Milah’s conversations are sincere, honest, and vulnerable, and they use their social skills to drive positive discussions. They invite inspirational people, from women who empower to celebrity parents, discussing and challenging archaic social stereotypes and much more. This entertaining podcast is suitable for open minded parents and women who feel alone in their good and bad choices.

Frequency: weekly every Wednesday
Duration: from 10 minutes to 1 hour

5. Strong Single and Human

What is single parenting really like? Join Claire Martin as she acknowledges that single parenting is the hardest things you will ever do. Her podcast Strong Single and Human is dedicated to all single parents, no matter how they got there.

She usually interviews single parents who have dealt with a variety of challenging or worrying situations yet have come out the other side. Topics that are discussed include dealing with a child or children with autism as a single parent, learning to love yourself, becoming a newly single mum after divorce or bereavement, addiction in the family, and more practical topics, such as dealing with fussy eaters and finances.

With these titbits of knowledge and wisdom, Claire Martin hopes to inspire single parents to overcome the challenges of doing it alone and to come out stronger than before.

Frequency: weekly
Duration: 45 minutes to 1 hour

6. Dad Starting Over

Ralph, aka DSO, a single dad of three children, talks about how you can start over, whether that is by avoiding making the same mistakes again, or by pressing the restart button on your current relationship. Dad Starting Over is for all men starting over in life, not just newly single dads post-divorce.

DSA is the author of “The Dead Bedroom Fix”, “NOW WHAT?”, and “Red Flags”. He is also a life coach for men, so, unsurprisingly, his podcast is mostly about male topics. These range from neuroticism in men and testosterone replacement therapy, to female entitlement and a partner’s lack of sexual desire.  The host usually discusses issues listeners have sent in by email, but he also occasionally interviews friends or experts in a field of interest.

Frequency: irregular
Duration: anything from 6 minutes to 1 hour

We hope, you enjoyed tuning in to our collection of the best single parent podcasts. What we love about all of them, is that they offer positivity, encouragement, and practical solutions. These podcasters want to empower you by making you focus on the positive, leave behind the self-doubt, and get back to a happy place. Happy listening!