"Beth Kevles" wrote:

As a single dad, you could probably make good use of a support group
where you live, maybe one composed largely of single parents, maybe
not. If you let us know what city you live in, maybe we could help you
connect with a suitable group.

I probably could use some support. Part of the reason I came here. I live
in Saskatoon, SK (Canada) - where resources for single parents appears more
directed to the female gender - women's safe-houses and what-not. I haven't
really actively sought anything out yet tho...

In any case ... at this age, ALWAYS be supportive of your child.
Appreciate every neat thing he does, new or otherwise. Always tell him
he's doing a "good job", and hug him and smile a lot and ***talk to him
a lot*** even if his answers don't make sense. (I used to keep up a
running commentary on how hot the water was for his bath, and look at
how messy his diaper was, and here are the wipes... I just did
*everything* aloud.)

DS gets tons of hugs and is full of smiles and laughter - really, I'm
blessed with a *very* good-natured child. I sometimes wonder if I lavish it
on a little thick - is it self-indulgent to give/get so many hugs? His
daycare provider tells me how affectionate he is - how nice it is to come to
work and get so many hugs and smiles.

I've always done the same with the running commentary.. ..I guess my
worrying was more to do with *me* than with him.

Next comes the testing stage (also known as the "terrible twos"
where he'll do stuff just to see what the reaction is. Be firm, be
consistent, and with luck the two of you will get through the next stage
intact :-)

yes, I can't wait.. ;-)

Thanks.. ..I was meaning to write more.. ..but am being kept pretty busy
currently. =)