My Approach to Parenting as a Single Mom

I often get asked, “How is your son so respectful and confident?” It’s one of the best compliments I could ever receive as a mother. Raising my son to be a kind, self-assured, and thoughtful person hasn’t been about perfection—it’s been about intention. Every day, I make conscious choices to support him, to understand him, and to help him navigate the world in a way that honors both who he is and who he is becoming.

Understanding My Son as an Individual

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned as a mom is that my son isn’t just a child; he’s his own person. He has his own way of thinking, feeling, and experiencing the world. When I discovered his Human Design type (Projector) and how he processes things differently, it changed everything. Instead of pushing him to fit into traditional expectations, I started guiding him based on his strengths.

He needs recognition and space to make decisions in his own way, so I make sure he knows his voice matters. I listen when he talks, whether it’s about school, his favorite sea turtles, or something that seems small but is big in his world. By valuing his thoughts and feelings, I show him that he is worthy of being heard—not just by me, but by the world.

Teaching Respect by Giving It First

A child who respects others learns that from the people closest to them. I don’t demand respect from my son; I model it. I treat him with kindness, patience (even when it’s hard), and honesty. When I make mistakes, I own them. When he struggles, I acknowledge his feelings instead of dismissing them.

Respect isn’t just about how he treats adults; it’s about how he values himself. I encourage him to set boundaries and to know that his feelings and needs are valid. By showing him that his voice and emotions matter, he’s learned to carry himself with confidence and self-respect.

Balancing Discipline with Understanding

I was raised in a tough love household, and while that gave me resilience, I knew I wanted to balance that with emotional support for my son. Discipline in our home isn’t about control; it’s about guidance. I set clear expectations and hold him accountable, but I also take the time to explain why things matter.

For example, if he’s struggling with school or responsibilities, I don’t just punish him—I help him figure out what’s going on. Is he feeling overwhelmed? Is something distracting him? Does he need a different approach? Instead of just expecting results, I work with him to find solutions.

Encouraging Independence While Being a Safe Space

As a single mom, I want my son to be independent, but I also want him to know he never has to face life alone. I encourage him to try new things, make decisions, and express himself. But when he needs comfort, I’m there.

Being a single parent means juggling a lot, but I make sure he always knows he is my priority. Even when life is stressful (and believe me, it has been!), I remind him that he is loved, supported, and never alone.

Leading with Love, Not Pressure

I have high hopes for my son, but I never want him to feel like he has to be perfect to be loved. I don’t expect him to get everything right, and I don’t compare him to others. Instead, I focus on helping him grow into the best version of himself.

That’s why I celebrate his efforts, not just his achievements. I remind him that it’s okay to fail as long as he learns from it. I encourage him to pursue what excites him, even if it’s different from what I expected. His journey is his own—I’m just here to support him along the way.

Love and Intention Over Perfection

Being a good mom isn’t about knowing all the answers. It’s about showing up, paying attention, and being willing to grow alongside your child. Every day, I choose to understand my son, to respect him as a person, and to create a home where he feels safe to be himself.

And if that’s what helps him walk through the world with confidence and respect, then I know I’m doing something right.