Single dads are just as capable of raising children as single mothers but they face some unique challenges. For example, their social support systems may be weaker and less reliable, leading to feelings of loneliness and isolation. They also may find it tougher time to get away from work when their kids need them, like on sick days, field trips, and whenever their presence makes a big difference.

As a single dad, you know that juggling work and parenting responsibilities can feel overwhelming at times, especially if you have no nearby family members to help out or carry some of the burden. But here are a few vital steps you can take to reduce your stress levels while ensuring your kids get the love and attention they so deserve.

1. Listen instead of act. Men tend to want to immediately spring into action when problems arise. But children don’t always open up because they’re seeking solutions. Instead, they often go to their parents for comfort and reassurance. Keep an open mind when your children are upset or angry as in many cases, they just want to share what’s bothering them in judgment-free zone.
2. Find a positive female role model for your children. If your children’s mom is neither in the picture nor an ideal role model, strive to find a strong woman that they can look up to, especially if you have a daughter. A female relative or close friend who gets along well with your children can provide a much-needed presence in their lives.
3. Befriend other parents. Having a social life mays seem impossible for single parents. But it can be much easier when you can bring your kids along for get-togethers and events. Whether you seek them out at your children’s school, at church, or at any other social event, having other parents that you can connect with is a great way to unwind with people in similar stages of their lives, especially if their children are the same age as yours.
4. Take time for yourself at least once per month. Take at least one mental and physical health day per month to focus on yourself. Getting time away from your obligations can be incredibly tough as a single dad, but having a day to relax and focus on your hobbies and interests is crucial, as it lets you recharge and refocus. Coordinating the logistics of such a day isn’t always easy, but with enough planning, it can be done and benefit both you and your children.
5. Avoid the temptation to be overprotective. As a single dad, it’s easy to feel like you’re bearing the weight of the world on your shoulders—and much of that weight comes in the form of keeping your kids safe and happy. The thought of anything bad happening to their kids is so devastating to many single parents that it makes become extremely overprotective for years. It’s vital to strike the right balance and let your children safely push boundaries while knowing they’re loved and accepted at home no matter what happens.
6. Stay healthy! Your kids need you more than anyone else in the world so it’s vital that you stay healthy and active for as long as possible. Eat a well-balanced diet and find time to exercise at least 30 minutes per day to maintain cardiovascular health. When you stay in shape, you are far better able to handle the conflicting  demands of single parenthood, including long work hours and playing with your kids when you get home in the evening.
7. Set goals for yourself and your family. It’s easy to get caught up in the daily grind of making sure your kids get to school, working, cooking dinner and helping with homework, and getting everyone to bed on time. Years can pass by in a flash, leaving you wondering where the time went. Setting goals can help you stay focused on big picture ideas that you want to achieve but otherwise might not find the time or energy to complete.
8. Date if you’re ready to do so.  Single parents are often reluctant to date, as they may be afraid of upsetting their children by bringing someone new and unfamiliar around—especially at home. But if you’re ready to jump back into the dating scene, it’s perfectly reasonable to begin testing the waters again. However, it’s important to be aware of your children’s feelings during this time and to introduce new partners gradually to help them get used to the idea that a new adult will be in their lives.
9. Schedule fun activities for your kids.  Make sure your kids have plenty of things to look forward to each week. Your days out with your kids need not be expensive or extravagant to be memorable. A day at the park, a quick trip to the zoo, a hike on a nearby trail, or even a movie and pizza are all great ways to bond with your kids and create lifelong memories.
10. Don’t badmouth their mother.  Whether your children see their mother frequently, rarely, or not at all, it’s important that their opinion of her not be clouded or swayed by anything you say. Answer their questions honestly and truthfully, but do your best to stay civil and neutral. Children are very sensitive to stress, anger, and sadness in others, and bad blood between you and your ex will be easily picked up on by them.