National Single Parenting Day: Balance, Boundaries & Finding Joy

By Brooke Abbott Abron

Single parenting is a masterclass in multitasking—you’re the CEO, therapist, chef, referee, and cuddle provider all in one. It’s exhausting, exhilarating, and at times, overwhelming. But in between the hustle, how do you maintain joy and hope in your household? How do you balance structure with warmth, discipline with empathy, and independence with support?

As a single mom, I’ve navigated the tightrope of parenting alone—balancing responsibilities while ensuring my child feels loved, safe, and empowered. What I’ve learned is this: single parents deserve more than just survival mode. We deserve to thrive.

Finding Balance: Structure with Heart

Balancing structure with warmth is one of the hardest, yet most rewarding, parts of single parenting. Too much structure can feel rigid, too little can feel chaotic. The key? Finding your family’s rhythm.

In my own journey, I learned that schedules aren’t just for school and work—they’re for joy, too. Just like homework and chores have a designated time, so should dance breaks, movie nights, and unplanned kitchen dance parties. Structure gives security, but spontaneity gives life.

Here are a few organizational tools that help maintain that balance:

• Color-Coded Calendars: Each family member gets a color. This helps visually track activities, schoolwork, and self-care time for both you and your child.

• Reward Systems: A simple sticker chart or point system for chores and behavior not only helps kids build responsibility but also gives you a way to track your own accomplishments. Yes, parents need rewards, too!

• The “No-Phone” Hour: One dedicated hour each day where screens go off and connection takes priority—whether it’s a family walk, reading time, or just catching up over dinner.

Boundaries: Teaching Respect & Independence

One of the greatest gifts we can give our children is the understanding that boundaries are not restrictions—they’re a form of love. Just as we set expectations for them, we must set boundaries for ourselves.

• Teaching Self-Care Early: Our kids need to see that taking breaks and resting are essential, not indulgent. By modeling self-care—whether it’s a bath, reading a book, or simply stepping outside for fresh air—we show them that prioritizing well-being is non-negotiable.

• Taking Breaks from Each Other: Even the closest parent-child bond benefits from breathing room. Encouraging independent play, solo hobbies, or quiet time teaches kids self-sufficiency while giving you a moment to reset.

• “Mommy/Daddy Time” Zones: Create a designated space or time in the home where you can recharge. Teach your child that respecting this boundary is part of respecting you as a person, not just as their parent.

Finding Joy: Self-Care That Works

Self-care for single parents has to be realistic. A weekend getaway might be out of reach, but joy can be found in smaller, everyday moments.

• Five-Minute Meditations: Start or end your day with a few deep breaths, gratitude reflections, or a short guided meditation.

• Themed Movie Nights: Pick a theme, let the kids help with snacks, and turn your living room into a theater.

• Solo Dates: Even if it’s just coffee on the porch or a drive with your favorite playlist, schedule time for yourself the way you’d schedule a doctor’s appointment.

• The “One Fun Thing” Rule: Every day, do one thing that brings you happiness—even if it’s small. A dance party in the kitchen, an extra five minutes in the shower, or a sweet treat after bedtime.

Building a Support System

You don’t have to do it all alone. Finding community—whether through family, friends, online groups, or local meet-ups—can make the journey lighter.

• Lean on Your Village: Whether it’s carpool swaps, meal trains, or emotional check-ins, let people help you.

• Ask for Help Without Guilt: You are not failing by needing support. You are modeling strength by seeking it.

• Create a “Parenting Pod”: If you have fellow single-parent friends, rotate responsibilities like weekend playdates or shared dinners to lighten the load.

You Deserve to Thrive

On this National Single Parenting Day, let’s remind ourselves that we are more than just parents—we are individuals deserving of joy, peace, and fulfillment. We are raising incredible children while also becoming the best versions of ourselves.

So, celebrate yourself today. Honor the strength it takes to do this job solo. And know that in all the chaos, love, and learning, you are doing an amazing job.

Brooke Abbott Abron for Giggles LA: Known as Crazy Creole Mommy online, Brooke is a mom, advocate, activist, babywearing educator, and writer. As the founder of IBDMoms, she combines practical tips, mom advice, and evidence-based insights from her own lived experience to help families navigate both the joys and challenges of parenting.