Lois Nightengale, Ph.D.

By Lois Nightingale, Ph.D What are the qualities that a single parent should look for in someone they are deciding to date? 1. Playful, light and fun with kids. (Kids have an innate instinct about people.) Watch 2. Doesn’t try to make the kids like activities they “should” like. Will accept a child’s declining to participate in an activity that he/she likes. Open to learning about your … [Read more...] about Dating as a Single Parent

By Lois Nightingale, Ph.D Helping your child through your divorce may be one of the most difficult tasks you will ever face as a parent. The following is a brief list of practical tips that can help as you walk through this difficult time with your child. 1. Be honest. Don’t lead your child to believe “dad’s away on business” or “everything is going to be wonderful”. Children are very … [Read more...] about Ten Tips to Help your child through Divorce

By Lois Nightingale, Ph.D Many adults now acknowledge the benefit of a supportive professional as they face the challenges a divorce inevitably brings. But many parents are unsure at what point their child may be exhibiting signs that indicate a need for professional counseling.Many of these signs are similar to the symptoms adults experience when undergoing severe stress. * Sleep … [Read more...] about How Can I Tell if my Child needs Therapy?

By Lois Nightingale, Ph.D Holidays after a divorce can be very difficult. Holidays with children after a divorce can be worse, even terrifying. Whether this is “your year” with the children or not, facing the holidays and knowing that they will be different from previous years can be challenging. The following are some suggestions to help single parents make the most of the holiday season and … [Read more...] about Single Parenting through the Holidays

By Lois Nightingale, Ph.D During the school year it can be difficult enough for single parents to keep kids cared for and out of trouble, but when summer arrives and school activities are no longer available, the challenge becomes even more complicated. Many single parents are left with the dilemma of being happy about extra time with their children but also the concern about what to do with … [Read more...] about Single Parenting in the Summer

By Lois Nightingale, Ph.D Children have the right to: 1. Continue to love both parents without guilt or disapproval (subtle or overt) by either parent or other relatives. 2. Be repeatedly reassured that the divorce is not their fault. 3. Be reassured they are safe and their needs will be provided for. 4. Have a special place for their own belongings at both parents’ … [Read more...] about Rights of Children of Divorce

Written by: Lois Nightingale, PhD Helping your child through your divorce may be one of the most difficult tasks you will ever face as a parent. The following is a brief list of practical tips that can help as you walk through this difficult time with your child. 1. Be honest. Don’t lead your child to believe “dad’s away on business” or “everything is going to be wonderful”. Children are … [Read more...] about Ten Tips on Deciding between Collaboration and Mediation