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SOLO ACT, CONTINUED ...Published: November, 2009

Dr. Kathy Nickerson, an Irvine-based marriage and family therapist, stresses the importance of creating a support network through such groups prior to welcoming a new baby into a single-parent home.
   
“It is very important to develop two things: a game plan and a support network,” says Nickerson.
   
Prior to having your child, ask yourself these basic questions:
1. Who will care for your child when you work?
2. Who can help in an emergency?
3. What needs do you anticipate your child having, and how will you meet these needs?
4. Who are the trusted adults you want in your child’s life?
5. How will you integrate the needs of your child with your own personal needs?
   
Schrank’s daughter, Kylie, is now 4 years old and just started Pre-K.        
   
“I don’t regret my decision at all; she is the love of my life,” Schrank says.

Caitlin Adams is an OC Family magazine intern.


•> ASK THE DOCTOR
Q&A WITH DR. KATHY NICKERSON

Q: What is the most frequent challenge a solo parent can expect in the first 3 to 6 months? The first year? The first three years?

A: Within the first 6 months, everything will be new, so be prepared not to know how to do everything, and give yourself permission to make mistakes.   
   
During the first year, the single greatest challenge will likely be adjusting to your new life. You will get very little sleep, your schedule will be unpredictable and you will need to respond to the changing needs of your child in different ways.

Click HERE to read the rest of the Q&A with Dr. Nickerson.

Dr. Kathy Nickerson is a marriage and family therapist based in Irvine.
drkathynickerson.com