The Single Moms Guide to Figuring Out What Kind of Parent You Are

Hey there, awesome readers!

If you’re like me, you’ve probably found yourself in some pretty sticky parenting situations. You may have even questioned what kind of parent you really are.

Well, fear not. Today we’re going to embark on an introspective journey to uncover the mysteries of our parenting styles. So, grab your coffee (or wine, no judgements here), and let’s dig in!

The Pinterest-Perfect Parent

Do you spend hours scrolling through Pinterest, saving DIY craft projects and homemade baby food recipes you’ll never actually make?

Do you dream of a home that looks like it was designed by Joanna Gaines while your real home looks more like you’re in the middle of a midnight move? (Except that it’s not midnight, which means that you can’t even get THAT right?)

Well, then, Congratulations! You’re a Pinterest-Perfect Parent!

You’re the mom who tries to recreate those adorable unicorn-themed birthday parties, only to find out THE DAY BEFORE THE PARTY, that your kid has outgrown unicorns and is now into BARBIE because apparently the movie had a message except you didn’t get the message because you couldn’t get past the first half hour of the movie. (Or maybe that’s just me. Don’t judge. I tried.)

Regardless, embrace your inner Martha Stewart and remember, there’s absolutely no shame in buying pre-made cupcakes! (Just remember to put the box in the recycling bin before your tiny guests arrive.)

The Duct Tape and Super Glue Parent

Raise your hand if you’re the mom who can fix anything with duct tape and super glue.

You, my friend, are a Duct Tape and Super Glue Parent! Whether it’s performing surgery on a beloved stuffed animal, or duct taping a leaky faucet, you’re the mom who’s always ready with a quick fix.  

Just remember, when it comes to your child’s emotional wounds, duct tape won’t cut it – but your love and support will.

Yes, the world outside your home can be harsh and cruel. But no need to bring that shit inside. Hugs, kisses, and adoring smiles are the three main ingredients in building your child’s self-confidence.

The Chaotic Chef Parent

Do you consider cereal a legitimate dinner option?

Have you perfected the art of microwave gourmet?

If your culinary skills are less Top Chef and more Top Ramen, you’re a Chaotic Chef Parent. Embrace your inner Julia Child, even if that means your signature dish is mac ‘n’ cheese from a box. After all, it’s all about survival! And by survival, I mean getting through your to-do list before you run out of day. (Or energy.)

And here’s a hot tip: involve your kids in meal prep. Not only does cooking with your kids create great bonding time, it’s also a scientific fact that 11 out of 10 kids will eat what they make. (This is also one of the world’s greatest mysteries because… well, we’ve all seen the result of what tiny hands can do to an open-faced English muffin pizza.)

The Expert Multitasker

Are you constantly juggling work, school, soccer practice, and laundry?

Do you hold the world record in changing diapers while on a conference call with no one noticing?

You, my dear, are an Expert Multitasker! While your superhero multitasking skills are impressive, remember to take some time for yourself. Even superheroes need a break from saving the day.

And if I may, reading after the kids are in bed is a top “me time” activity for parents. If you order my book SUPERWOMAN: A Funny and Reflective Look at Single Motherhood directly from my publisher, you can save $5.00 with the promo code… you guessed it: SUPERWOMAN. (You should probably order it now because this is a limited-time offer.)

The No-Nonsense Negotiator

Have you mastered the art of convincing your child that naptime is actually a fun adventure?

Do you employ a variety of negotiation tactics to get your little one to eat their veggies?

You are the No-nonsense Negotiator and kudos to you for developing top-notch persuasion skills!  

But here’s the thing: Don’t forget to teach your child the importance of compromise – like agreeing to eat one more broccoli floret in exchange for an extra bedtime story. We gotta get those veggies in one sneaky tactic at a time.

The Chaos Coordinator

Do you thrive in the chaos of parenting?

Is your idea of a relaxing evening filled with spilled juice, sticky fingerprints, and impromptu dance parties?

You are the Chaos Coordinator! Life may be messy, but it’s also filled with laughter and unforgettable moments.

Embrace the chaos and remember that the messes can always be cleaned up. (Eventually.)

To read more about the importance of bonding through laughter, check out my WestMount Magazine article that talks about the pillars of positive parenting.

The Guilty Pleasure Guru

Are you the mom who sneaks out the hidden chocolate when the kids are in bed, or binge-watches guilty-pleasure reality TV shows during naptime?

You’re the Guilty Pleasure Guru and there’s absolutely NOTHING wrong with that! It takes a strong woman to let go of guilt and indulge in those moments of self-care.

I think we can all agree: a happy mom is a better mom!

And there you go… the guide to figuring out what kind of parent you are.

The truth is, we’re all a little of everything. And as single moms, our resilience is what makes us awesome. You know it. I know it. Your ex knows it. (Even if they won’t admit it out loud.)

Embrace your unique and sometimes complex parenting style – flaws and all!

And remember that the most important ingredient in your parenting arsenal is the love you have for your little ones. So spread that shit on everything!

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Mona Andrei is an award-winning humor blogger, columnist, and author. In her most recent book, SUPERWOMAN: A Funny and Reflective Look at Single Motherhood, she shares her challenges and triumphs as a single mother as well as stories from other single mothers.

Mona is also the host of the Single Moms with Moxie podcast.
When Mona isn’t writing or elevating other single mothers, you can probably find her dancing. As a member of a competitive hip-hop team, she likes to think that she’ll stay young and cool forever. She may be delusional.