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IS
SINGLE PARENTING RIGHT FOR YOU?
Chances are you never thought of yourself as
being a single parent. You might be wondering if single parenting is
in your future and how you could possibly handle all of the responsibility
that comes with raising a child. At Carolyn’s place we offer many services and referral
services that can make single parenting a potential option for you. You
will have many questions that need answers and we are Carolyn’s
Place are ready to help you find the answers you need:
Can I stay in school if I am pregnant?
Most
schools encourage you to continue your studies and may offer alternative
programs or time schedules for you to complete your requirements. Even
if you have to take a semester or two off, you can finish school.
What are the father’s
rights and responsibilities?
A
child’s needs are best met when both birth parents work together
for the child’s benefit. The birth father does have rights. It depends
on the state and jurisdiction. In some areas the birth father has the
right to make medical and personal care decisions. In some states, the
birth father’s name is not required on the birth certificate. In
all cases, the birth father is legally responsible for providing financial
support for your child and most states have child support enforcement
agencies if the birth father is unwilling or unable to pay child support. Although, you may not get child support depending on the circumstances,
so it is important for you to plan appropriate financial care for your
child.
What are my parent’s rights?
The
rights of grandparent’s vary by state and jurisdiction. Birth
parents are the only ones who legally have rights and responsibilities
for the baby. Grandparents can be a wonderful support system. If you
have parents who are willing to help you, be open to considering that
option.
Where will I live after the baby is born?
It
is important for you to think about this before the baby is born. Some
options to consider include living with your parents, a friend, a relative,
or the birth father’s parents,
living in a group home for single mothers, or living in public subsidized
housing.
How will I take care of
my baby?
There are organizations and people
available that want to help you have a solid start to raising your
child. Support you might be eligible for includes good prenatal
medical care, parenting classes, food, clothing and furniture for
your baby, and training on life skills such as cooking, creating
a budget and managing a household.
I don’t
want to be on welfare, do I have any other options?
You may be eligible for
programs which offer you job training, tuition and childcare. Other
options include educational grants and loans combined with work to
cover your living expenses and childcare. Parenting for
anyone, means altering some of your goals and plans, but with determination
and support from the right areas, you can successfully reach your personal
goals and raise a happy, loving child.
Contact us to discuss your single parenting support.
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