Topic: Be kind, small ears are always listening

By Jean Tracy

If you're a divorced parent, avoid these 3 mistakes and create these 3 solutions when building character in your child. Your child will reward you with respect, trust, and love.

One of the most important things that a single parent can do is no matter what happens, do not use the children as pawns. Yes, this can be tough. Some of the hardest moments will be swallowing your anger and praising the kids father after a big fight.

If you are so angry that you feel the need to "trash" your ex partner, call a friend! No matter what has gone o­n, your kids have to know that they have the greatest parents o­n the planet. This is very important for their own security.

We've had a multitude of email from people saying "How can you expect me to say something nice about my ex? He/She is such a jerk and doesn't care about the kids!" It's hard. It's really hard. Your kids will appreciate it much more if you let them make their own decisions about their other parent.

As they grow, they will see what the person really is. No matter what a jerk your ex may be, your children could become resentful to you for not allowing them to decide o­n their own. Your children will respect you for allowing them to make their own minds up.

I believe it's true -- The Single Parent and their child(ren) have a special and close bond. This special bond is SO easy to overstep. Remember, you are the parent, they are the child. Do no share all of your woes, worries, and concerns with your child. Imagine what you would feel like if, as a small child, your parent were to tell you about their money, dating, or employment problems. Our kids have enough to worry about, let's try to keep their worries to every day kid stuff!