How to appreciate your single parent

How to treat your single parent

Being a single parent can be tough, if you live with only your mum or only your dad, you should know that, even if they show or tell you otherwise, life is harder for them, because they have to take the role of both mum and dad. That's double the work. This post is to show you what you can do as a child to make their life a little bit easier. If you can't do much physically, there are many ways you can help out and show your appreciation, which will make them feel much better on the inside, knowing that their hard work is appreciated, and not going to waste. Even small actions can make a big difference. Here are some things you can do to help your single parent and show them how much you care.

Keep Your Room Clean

One of the easiest ways to help out is by keeping your room tidy. When you pick up your toys, make your bed, and put your clothes away, it means your parent has one less thing to worry about. Plus, a clean room can help you feel more organized and relaxed. Slowly, you can help keep the rest of the house clean as well. Now that's one BIG thing your parent doesn't have to worry about.

Help with Chores

Offering to do simple chores around the house is a great way to pitch in. You can wash the dishes, take out the trash, fold the laundry, or even sweep the floor. Every little bit helps and shows your parent that you’re willing to lend a hand. You will mess up things that you try out for the first time. But just keep in mind, it takes around 10 tries to get good at most things in life.

Do Your Homework without being told 100 times

Make sure you finish your homework on time and do your best in school. When you take care of your schoolwork, it shows your parent that you’re responsible and serious about your education. Show your parent that you have a bright future. It really lifts the mood of a mum or dad to see good results and compliments from your school.

Mind your tone

Always treat your parent with kindness and respect. Say "please" and "thank you," listen when they talk, and try to understand their point of view. Remember, the 'tone' you use to speak in, matters more than the words you choose to speak. If you have anything to say, try saying it in a softer tone. The great prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said "he who has been deprived of softness, has been deprived of all good". Which basically means, a soft manner of doing things or saying things gets the message across much better. Sometimes your words aren't harsh but your harsh tones does more damage. Don't ever yell, or raise your voice with your parents.

Help with Younger Siblings

If you have younger brothers or sisters, offer to help out by playing with them, reading them a story, or helping them with their homework. This can give your parent a much-needed break and show that you’re responsible and caring. Taking care of children can be difficult for a single parent who's juggling jobs. If you're old enough to be able to help with that, then believe me, it's one of the best help you can offer to your parent. Especially when your parent is back home from a long day at work. It might mean you'll have to give up some of your playing time, but we must all make our share of sacrifices to keep the family function happily.

Prepare Simple Meals

If you’re old enough, try making a simple meal or snack for your parent. You could make a sandwich, prepare a salad, or even just set the table. Cooking something easy shows your parent that you’re thoughtful and willing to help. Stand next your parent when they're cooking. Show them you want to learn. Start from the most simple things and work your way up as you get older. These skills will come in handy for yourself one day as well, but will make life a little easier for your parent today.

Read the room / correct your timing

Reading the room means you should understand the situation of the household. If you have petty complaints about siblings for example, don't bring them out at a particularly stressful time when things are already tense. Choose a better time. In fact, as an older sibling, you should learn to ignore a lot of the annoying things your younger siblings do. This will lighten the burden off your parent. It will also allow you to practice ignoring, which is a vital skill in everyone's adult life.

Spend Time Together

Spend quality time with your parent by doing something fun together. You could play a game, watch a movie, go for a walk, or just talk about your day. Spending time together strengthens your bond and shows that you enjoy their company. With time and age, you will understand that, spending time with your parents and family, even when doing something boring, is more satisfying than going on your phone, tablet or gaming device. A lot of children realize this only after they have grown up, and sometimes that can be too late.

Listen to your parent and don't question everything

Follow the house rules and do what your parent asks without complaining. This shows that you respect their efforts to take care of you and understand the importance of rules. Plus, it helps keep the home running smoothly. Don't ask WHY you should do something all the time. Trust your parent. The Qur'an says "And do not say 'uff' to them (your parents)". As you may know, 'uff' is a word used when one is fed up.

By doing these things, you can help make your single parent’s day a little easier and show them how much you appreciate everything they do for you. Remember, even small actions can have a big impact!