Care.com took to Twitter to discuss the highs and lows of raising a child solo, and the importance of dads with Ian Newbold of Single Parent Dad.
Care.com: Hi Ian, thanks for joining us. First things first – what made you start blogging?
Ian: “I’d always dreamed of doing more writing and my wife passing away was the inspiration to do more about it.”
Care.com: How has blogging helped you?
Ian: “It’s helped me better understand things and make sounder decisions. I’ve also made some great friends through it.”
Care.com: The internet can be a great resource! What has been the best thing to come out of the Single Parent Dad blog?
Ian: “It’s yielded a lot. But I value the friendships I’ve made and, probably more, the friendships my son has made the most.”
Care.com: A positive experience for both of you, that’s great.
Ian: “Indeed. And I think my son gets more than me out of the video games and toys we get sent to review!”
Care.com: What is the top piece of advice you would give to parents facing raising their children alone?
Ian: “Get help. Obvious but help with kids is often taken for granted. You helping others can lead to reciprocation.”
Care.com: You have recently made a move into books, how did that come about?
Ian: “Out of the blue; I was approached by a publisher, we discussed several concepts and the idea for ‘Parenting with Balls’ was born. It’s a brutally open and honest account dealing with sudden grief coupled with being thrown in the parenting deep-end.”
Care.com: How do you juggle work, writing and caring for your son?
Ian: “By working for myself and only seeking stuff that’s flexible. Work I can do on our timeframe. Always difficult though.”
Care.com: No doubt! What do you do to unwind when/ if you get the chance?
Ian: “Playing sport, walks, trying new things, new places; watching anything by Wes Anderson. Also I have a very sweet tooth.”
Care.com: All the best people do…What is your top tip for celebrating Father’s Day – and what would happen if you went on strike for a day?
Ian: “I’m not a great fan of Father’s Day, every day feels like Father’s Day to me. And strike? My son would stop my pay!”
Care.com: That’s a lovely way to think; I won’t encourage you to strike then – don’t anger the boss! Thanks for joining us.
