1. Surviving AND Thriving as a Single Parent Can it be done?

2. My Boys! Jared, 13 Likes football, girls, and Texas A & M Aggies Wants to design video games as an adult Enjoys skateboarding, going to the movies with friends, and talking on the phone…. A lot!

3. My Boys! Caleb, 9 Likes football, basketball, and University of Texas Wants to build houses as an adult Enjoys playing paintball and trying to keep up with his brother

4. Take time for yourself You are a better parent when you give to yourself first. Spend time with friends. Go window shopping, to the grocery store, or just take a drive. Take a nap. Talk to a friend on the phone.

5. Make time for your kids Your children certainly have your quantity time, but do they have any quality time? Go to the park. Make a family game night. Rent a kid-friendly movie. Spend a few minutes together just before bedtime.

6. Stay organized Set a household routine and stick to it. Lay out school clothes the night before. Wake up in plenty of time to get things done. Train your child to follow the routine, and make it a family plan. Stay on top of household chores. Less is more!

7. Create a budget Holding yourself and your family to a budget can take away a world of worry and unnecessary stress! Track your spending for a few months to see where your money goes. Break down your money into Have To’s and Want To’s Lump your Have To money together and DON’T TOUCH IT! Section the rest of your income into the Want To’s categories. It’s OK for your kids to know “The money’s just not there for that (whatever) right now.”

8. Don’t be afraid to ask for help You are NOT super-parent! Family Friends Neighbors Religious organizations Civic organizations JACKSON ELEMENTARY!

9. So….. IS it possible to not only survive, but THRIVE as a single parent?

10. ABSOLUTELY

11. My goals… I plan to….