Categories: Parenting

Anger Management Techniques for Single Parents

Why do single parents need unique anger management tips? Simply put, they have no partner to get their back when things get overwhelming. And believe me, things do get overwhelming. It’s tough being both Mom and Dad to your kids. I did it for over 20 years. Actually, I’m still doing it, even though my kids are grown. There are many times when I feel like banging my fists on the wall. Of course I don’t. That would look pretty silly. I’m a grown up, after all. I’m supposed to be in charge of my emotions. So, what do I do when things get overwhelming?

Take a mini vacation. I go in my room, close the door and read a good book. I tell everyone Mom / Grandma is unavailable for the next hour. This little sabbatical gives me time to reboot my emotions. Sometimes I take a nap. Sometimes I play ocean wave or rain songs. You could do whatever relaxes you. Afraid the kids will kill each other while you take your me time? Pop in a movie they all like.

Watch a funny movie with the kids. I hate to sound cliché. Still, laughter really is the best medicine. Plus, watching a funny movie puts you back on common ground with your kids. It works to smooth things over by opening the lines of communication. One time, when my kids were little, my daughter looked up at me during a funny movie and told me I was pretty when I laughed. Now how could I possibly be angry after that?

Smile and remember the love. When you’re angry over your kids behavior, take a moment to reflect. Dredge up happy memories. Remember why you’re doing this. You love them, right? This is when you need to love them the most. So crack a joke, take a deep breath and be the grown up. Being a single parent is your job and you love it and your kids. Try to keep that in mind when they try your patience the most.

Sometimes I just have to go for a walk. Get out of the house when you’re angry. The change of scenery will do you good. Single parents with young kids can take their kids with them on the walk. Go to the park. Join them on the playground. Swing and slide like you’re a kid again. You’ll be having so much fun, you’ll forget to be angry.

Try working it out. I don’t mean talk to your kids until you’re blue in the face. I mean work out. Hop on your exercise bike. Do some jumping jacks. Play Wii with the kids. I find exercise to be an awesome anger release method. You have to work out anyway. Why not accomplish two things at once? Anger management techniques for single parents don’t have to be complicated. They just have to work.