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Discipline and the Single Parent Being a single parent makes the job of parenting an even more difficult task. For the major life decisions in most situations the custodial parent should contact the other parent. A parent must make many choices and decisions daily. These decisions are mostly discipline related. Although many single parents would like the help of the other parent in these daily tough decisions, it is not feasible to contact the other parent to seek advice. So discipline usually remains the sole responsibility of the custodial parent. Single parenting extends way beyond the courtroom. Children need structure and boundaries. Consistency in discipline can help to set these boundaries. Knowing that every other Friday your child(ren) will be going to the other parent and that the discipline will continue there is helpful to the child and that would be a perfect world if this would happen. Try talking to the other parent when the child is picked up or dropped off for visitation. However, if that is not possible, show that the punishment will be continued upon the child's return. However, be warned, that can have some repercussions since the child may want to change where they think they should live, where there is no discipline with the other parent.But, it won't take long to realize that "the grass is not always greener". Talking to other caregivers might relieve some of the discipline pressure off your shoulders. A teacher, grandparent, or other caregiver might maintain the boundaries set where the other parent fails. This tactic might be helpful even when a non-custodial parent does participate. Seek help is necessary. There are little legal effects but the "best interest" of your children are at stake. Don't be afraid of legal interaction where none exists. Do seek counseling if the problem requires it. A good reference on disciplining your child(ren) is 1-2-3-Magic by Dr. Thomas Phelan, a registered clinical psychologist and internationally renowned expert on child discipline. As a suggestion, you might want to check out the articles on Dr. Glenn Johnson's website, (clinical therapist and psychologist), @ http://www.head-cleaners.com

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