Go into any book store or visit any web site and one will see dozens of resources and basic advice for parents. Often these resources suggest quick fixes and simple solutions for very complex problems. While we do not have all the answers, Raising Him Alone assembled a cross section of parents to assist us with developing basic tips for single parents raising boys.

Often many single mothers blame themselves or feel guilty for the absence of the other parent. Sometimes the feeling of guilt undermines "strong" parenting and a willingness to accept circumstances that can't be changed. To this end, Raising Him Alone realizes that parenting is a craft. This craft comes from a greater understanding of the dynamics which impact youth. It is our hope that single mothers will join us in a healthy dialogue around strong parenting. Raising Him Alone believes that strong parenting can increase the likelihood that Black males will grow to become productive citizens, husbands/fathers and highly successful individuals.

	Selecting a therapist can be a difficult process. It will take sometime to get referrals from family, friends as well as doing some independent research on therapist in your area. The following are a few helpful tips: :: View tips

	These books inspire, challenge, confuse and stimulate the minds and hearts of parents raising boys in a "toxic" society. The RHA Campaign announces its list of 30 Books for Parents raising a Black Male Child. :: View book list

It is time to reclaim our families!

:: 10 Basic Rules For Single Mothers
:: Quick Tips for Reconnecting Fathers
:: Quick Tips for Single Mothers Raising Boys

10 Basic Rules For Single Mothers

Never make him the man of the house. Connect your son with opportunities to meet responsible men. Create an environment for open communication. Get to know your son's friends. Teach your son how to love others and appreciate life. Encourage learning early. Decrease television viewing. Find time to relax (being a single parent can be tough). Develop an on-going relationship with your son's teachers. Begin the discussion about sex before sexual maturation begins.

Quick Tips for Reconnecting Fathers

Father's may be absent for a number of reasons. These reasons may or may not be legitimate in your eyes. However, it is important that fathers are allowed to be engaged in their son's lives. Realize that it is critical for your son to have a relationship with his father (barring any previous issues of violence or unhealthy contact). Mom may need to initiate reconnecting & redefining the bond between the absent father and her son (the male ego may not permit many fathers to extend the olive branch). Mothers need to deal with their own issues related to improving the relationship between the father and son. If possible, have a one-on-one meeting with your son's father to discuss the parameters of the relationship. Start slowly. This can be emotional. Possibly begin with allowing your son to develop a telephone relationship with his father. Create some one-on-one father and son opportunities. Create an environment for open communication between your son and his father. Create opportunities for the three of you to openly talk about the relationship.

Quick Tips for Single Mothers Raising Boys

Teach your son how to love others and appreciate life. Encourage learning early. Decrease television viewing. Find time to relax (being a single parent can be tough).