How do you manage alone with a baby?

[Alwaysscrolling]

Hi all. Just this really. Although not technically a single parent. My husband is about to be deployed for 4 months. Moved to be with him so i’m 4 hours from any sort of “help”. Looking for tips of how to cope with the constant work a baby requires. I’m not sure how I’ll cope.

Thanks

Hi OP

We're just bumping this for you.

Hi alwaysscrolling

How old is your wee one? What parts are you worried about? I've been on my own since the wee guy was 8 weeks old and some parts of it are easier. Have no choice but to manage so we just do, a solid routine helps. Does your baby sleep well?

My friends a single mom. Is there a nct class in your area? Ones round here run single parent groups... Might be useful or join some structured baby classes to get a routine.

ive been single since baby was born, its not easy and im alone 24.7

what isit your worried about mostly?

How old is your baby OP? Do you live on the patch or do you rent privately? It can be really hard, especially when you are missing your other half, but if he is being deployed guessing he is in the military; are you friends with any other partners? Often the community centres will have baby groups and activities, and it's a great way to meet others who have been in the same situation, and understand what it's like. My DH was deployed when DS was 2 months old, it was so relentless, the key tip is to ask for help where you can, hopefully you will be able to build a network up soon- also is it feasible to have friends and family stay some weekends? Having something to look forward to and that bit of help is invaluable. Organisation is key, and getting a routine going with daily tasks, plus buy freezer food and microwave meals if baby is still on milk, no shame at all and saves time.

Hi all, thank you for replying! My baby is 4 months today so still small. I think the bit i’m finding most difficult to get my head around is how to just be “me” for twenty minutes. Since writing this thread He’s been gone a couple of days and so far so good. Came up with a routine with three naps and a 8pm bedtime which seems to be working. Yes military family, on the patch and so far haven’t spoken to a soul. It’s a catch 22 because when your on your own and a bit sad I hate speaking to new people as worried i’m going to have a breakdown and cry my eyes out. I have a few baby groups to go to this week, and I’ve sorted a child mind for 7 hours on a Friday so feeling a little better.

Glad you've got a plan for this week. I think if you don't have a routine you'll end up in a pickle. The baby groups will break the week up nicely.

I’ve got 4 kids and ex absent. You manage because you have to been a single parent from when my youngest was born.

I’m honestly i’m awe of single parents, really is the hardest job in the world. Used to roll me eyes at people that told me that. Such is the way!

I've been alone with my son as a lone parent since birth; we had some help from my mum for about 6 weeks but that's it. I was living about 3 hours from family. I think a lone parent gets by because they don't have a choice. Me time was pretty non existent at that age realistically but I did make sure to go to baby groups (free if possible) to meet other adults; and always tried to get out of the house if just for a walk to clear my head.

I always went out in the daytime to local baby groups (until I returned to work) as it guaranteed I would get to speak to somebody. Go to the same ones regularly and you will make friends (even if they’re not close ones they will be familiar faces). Also, if he’s gone for 4 months perhaps plan a week at your family/friend’s home at some point: it will be something to look forward to and give you some company.