Single Parents: 7 [Exceptionally] Simple and Effective Ways to Help Them During the Pandemic

Parenting during the time of pandemic is hard. As a parent, having your partner by your side to help you stay sane amid the pandemic is already challenging. Imagine how a single parent would do what two parents should be doing to sustain life while being stuck at home. 

A sole caretaker at home could not take any breaks because there is no one to rely on to look after the kids. Simple home tasks are also hard to do because little humans wait for you every minute of every day. 

Pew Research Center did a recent study and found that almost a quarter of American children below age 18 live with only one parent. .If you know a single parent and would like to help, here are effective ways to help them.

(Photo: unsplash/Sharon McCutcheon)

See also: Coronavirus: 4 Useful Tips on How to Share the Workload at Home with Partner

Shop groceries and other needs

Some single parents could not afford delivery services because some may have lost income due to the pandemic. If they could go to physical stores, their kids would have to tag along. Help them by scheduling delivery services. You could also drop them off if you live nearby. 

Help keep their kids busy

Entertain their kids virtually as they do other chores or take a short break. You could play online games with them or do dance parties using Zoom. Giving your family or friend even a little breather could make a difference.

(Photo: unsplash/Bermix Studio)

See also: 7 Effective Tips on How to Parent Yourself

Treat them to their favorite restaurant

Surprise your friend, especially for those celebrating birthdays during the pandemic. You could order from their favorite restaurant and have them delivered to their doorstep. Not having to cook and wash dishes on their birthday would mean a lot to them. 

Donate stuff

If you have kids' stuff that your kids do not need anymore, you could donate them. Kids outgrow clothes and stuff fast. If you have slightly used stuff, share them with those who might need them. You may also give yours if your single parent friend could make good use of them.

Babysitting pandemic-style

A single mom shared that someone has volunteered to watch over her kids outdoors from six-feet away so that she could have her hands free. Another mom shared that one of her older children's friends parked in their garage. The friend had a monitor so that he could hear what is going on inside and only go in if there is an emergency. There are many unique ways to help your single parent family or friend while practicing social distancing.

See also: Empathic Listening: An Effective Guide for Parents to Help Children Process Grief

Help with the laundry

Laundry is one of the chores that people have to do always. Ask them to leave their pile on their doorstep and swing by to pick them up. Do the same thing when the laundry is ready. Make sure to wear masks to keep yourself safe.

(Photo: unsplash/Andy Fitzsimon)

Check-in on them regularly

Single parents do their best to do everything by themselves. They are often shy to ask for anyone's help, thinking they do not need them. When no one checks in on them, they tend to go on with their lonely life. Be sure that when you check on them, it is during the night, so the kids are already in bed. Find out what works best with their schedule and try to stick with it.