Being a Single Teen Parent is Not Easy

Taking care of children is harder for single parents. Single parents often don't have someone to help take care of the baby. Single parents often don't have someone to help make decisions. Also, it is harder for single parents to see their friends. Caring for the baby takes up so much time.

But it is important to spend some time with other adults, and not just at work. Go out with friends and family. Make sure your baby is well cared for when you are gone. It is not selfish to have some time for yourself. Take a break once a week to avoid stress.

Your baby, whether a boy or girl, needs to spend time with people of both sexes. Children need to know other adults, both men and women, who are calm, friendly, warm and trustworthy. Also, as children grow up, they need to be with other children. Boys need to play with other boys some of the time. Girls need to play with other girls some of the time.

The teen years are a special time in your life. Being a new parent is also special. Both come with their own joys and problems.

Being a single teen parent is not easy. In order to give your baby the best, you need a lot of love and support.

Many school districts have special programs to help teen parents. Some have programs for pregnant teens and teen mothers that include child care for babies while the teen mom goes to school. Some larger school districts have programs with flexible hours. These programs make it easier for teen parents to work and still go to school. Call your school district to find out if there is a program near you.

There are reasons why school is important to teen parents. Here are some of them:

• You can get a better job if you finish high school. A high school diploma is required for most jobs. A high school diploma is needed if you want to go to college.

• You will be a good example for your child. You will be able to help her when she goes to school.

• Ask your school district if it has a special program for teen parents. Ask about how to get your General Equivalency Diploma (GED).