How to cope solo parenting the majority of the time? Tips?

[Intheband]

My DH has been made redundant and we live rurally close to his old workplace. I have a job I like, youngest loves their school (DS age9) oldest moves to secondary in September (DD age 11).

Husband is trying really hard to get a new job but there is nothing nearby that is even in the same ballpark money wise. He is also pretty niche in specialisation.

He is looking at jobs in London (2.5hrs away) or a mixture of remote and international 50:50. Both would have me solo parenting either mon-fri every week or 2 weeks away, 2 weeks working from home.

Ive said I’m happy to move for a long term job once he’s settled within the uk.

So tips on how to keep everyone sane and happy and the house in some semblance of normality.

Will your work schedule fit with your DC's school schedule, or will you need to look at things like after-school clubs etc?

Solo parenting is all about routine, pre-planning and prioritisation. Your DCs are old enough that they don't need constant care in the way that a baby would so that helps a lot. When I was lone parenting I'd aim to knock out a chore most evenings after the kids were in bed so it wasn't all left to the weekend. Batch cooking pasta sauces, chilli, mashed potato etc was also really beneficial as it made evening meals way easier.

I work in a school so I’m mostly ok time wise as long as the 11 year old does not miss the school bus…..

I've said we will need to get a cleaner as not sure I will be able to keep up on all fronts.

freaking out about having to spin all the plates…