raising two kids near there teens as a sole male parent? Everyone expects you to have it all under control?

[joseph w]

My own family (immediate) expects that I'm able to help them out constantly and my childrens mothers family (whom are well to do) do nothing while I make sure My kids see that they have two families uncharted by problems..

[Cam S]

You're kidding, right? Been there, done that. Thank God they're grown. In my experience, nobody expected me to have it all under control. So, I received a lot of help from family and friends. Good luck mate.

[Steff]

I dont think anyone really expects you to have it all under control. So long as you and your kids are happy (as happy as tennagers can be) then you're doin a pretty damn good job.

Keep pushing forward!

[Barbie V]

well first of all congrats as a sole parent - I am as well and to be a male (I am not) I admire you. No one expects you to have it all under control, I dont believe any one who says they do - just do the best you can and always be there for them during the good times and the bad, they need to know you love them although its not always possible to actually like them a lot, they can be really horrible. Good luck and god bless

[triphazard99]

Even families with two parents don't have it all under control - so cut yourself some slack. Being a lone parent is tough, whether you're male or female, and not getting help from family makes it tougher. Find help from local support groups (your doc should be able to advise you), or from other parents at school - and remember, teenage years can be HELL - not only for you, but for the teenagers going through puberty and school.

No parent is perfect, you just do your best. Feed em, clothe em, discipline them and love them - just like you have been all along - and you'll all get through this together. Try not to show them that you feel you're losing control, however - at this age they will be sure to take advantage of any sign of weakness!

Good luck.