However you got here, by choice or circumstance, single parenting can be a challenging, often stressful way of life.  Finding the delicate balance between work, home, children and time for oneself can be difficult. There is no simple solution. In fact, the balance for each adult and every family may be different. Single working parents trying to balance work with a happy and stable family life should consider some of the following suggestions:

• Determine your financial priorities. Managing money wisely can help to relieve the financial strain that forces many single working parents to work long hours or excessive overtime. Work out a budget for living expenses and stick to it. Try to spend time with your children instead of giving them money for entertainment purposes. Weigh the benefits of your job (salary, insurance, etc.) with what it costs you in time spent away from your children. Sometimes a less demanding job can provide a better way of life for your family.
• Identify community resources. More and more communities are providing services to assist single working parents. Hospitals and family clinics now offer "sick-child" care, where health-care professionals take care of sick children so a parent is able to go to work. The cost varies but it can be worth the peace of mind. 
• Explore employment options. Keep your resume updated and utilize the Internet as a resource when job hunting. Libraries often provide free Internet access. Running your own business may allow you more flexibility to be with your children. If self-employment is not for you, look into companies that allow people to work at home or offer flex-time schedules.
• Coordinate with friends and family members. Full-time employment often means missing out on important after-school athletic events, school functions and dance recitals. Meet other single working parents through your child's school or day-care; you may be able to create a baby-sitting co-op. Rather than trying to make it to every event and blaming yourself when you can't, invite members of your family and close friends to attend.
• Communicate. As a single-parent family, you and your children must learn to cooperate and communicate. Keep in mind that while you go to work and fulfill other parental obligations, your children are busy with their own activities. Make sure your children know how to reach you and that you know where to find them. Be sure you all agree on schedules, transportation and all the details relating to a planned activity. It may help to post a calendar that lists the activities, drop-off times, pick-up times, etc. Be sure your workplace allows your children to contact you when necessary.
• Take Time for Yourself. At least once a month make a point of doing something just for you. It can be nothing more than going to a matinee movie alone, but everyone needs a break every now and then.