Being a parent is a truckload of work on its own and it requires a lot of die to self from you each and every day, all that for the betterment of your child’s wellbeing. It often becomes extra hard when you are parenting on your own, let alone being a mom raising a boy child.
You need all the help you can get because most times you don’t really know what you are doing and you’re just hoping for the best. It’s a trial-and-error type of situation, and the most painful part of it is not knowing what your child needs from you because you don’t understand him.
The Building Boys publication advises that you create opportunities for your son to spend time with good men in their extended family and community. Connect them with men who share their interests, such as coaches or church members, the publication further states.
Additionally, it is suggested that you learn about boys’ unique experiences and perceptions of the world, because “Boys perceive and experience the world differently than girls, and the more you understand his development and experience, the better you’re able to help him navigate the world (in a way that makes sense to him and respect his development.)”
Talk kindly about your son’s unreliable father (if that’s the case) and help their relationship grow, states iMom. The mentions source also mentions that you encourage your son to identify his good traits and praise his problem-solving skills. “Tell your son which of his dad’s good traits he possesses, but keep your lips closed about the bad. And even if his dad is unreliable, your son needs time with him. A little flexibility in the schedule goes a long way.”
The above publication further adds that emotional parentification is a delay in a child’s development when they are forced to be men at a young age, as they bear the emotional burden of being the house’s man, hindering their emotional rest. Therefore single mothers should avoid trying to make their sons men of the house.
Also see: Could your mental health state as a parent impact your child?
