If you are a single parent and don’t have someone else living with you who can drive a car, you may have difficulty driving your children to activities and appointments. You may have days where you need to be in several different places at the same time. You can find ways to address this dilemma.

Car sharing is an option. Parents who also have children attending an activity may be interested in sharing driving responsibilities with you, especially for practices and lessons. Your child’s school office can refer you to another parent who might be interested in carpooling. Or try looking in the school directory for other families who live in your neighborhood.

You may be able to ask friends or family members to help transport your children. However, this can quickly become a burden for them, so try to use this option as a last resort or help them with something they need to do, like raking leaves or cleaning their house.

A parent may be required to stay with their child for some activities. Ask the coach or activity leader if you could designate another parent to be responsible for your child when you are away. You may be able to take turns sharing the role with other parents so that not all parents have to attend each time.

If you have older children, public transportation may be a possibility. A monthly pass may be available that would allow your child unlimited rides for a set price. Or, if you have a child who can drive to school, you can take the bus and let the child drive your car to school and to after-school activities. Learn about carpooling to work so you can free up your car for your teen driver.

Anytime you’re looking for an apartment or buying a home, be sure to keep location in mind. If it’s close to your child’s school, your child may be able to walk or bike home instead of having to leave work to pick him up when he stays after school. And consider proximity to public transportation, like bus lines. If you live in an area that is close to major highways, your children may have an easier time finding transportation, as their place may be on the way home for other parents.

A trusted neighbor, retiree, or teenager may be interested in taking their children as a driver for pay. You may also be able to find another parent attending the event who is willing to transport your child if he provides you with gas money.

Paid transportation services are another option. Some places have specific services for the transport of children. Or, you may have taxi service available, although this can be expensive. You may also not feel comfortable having your child travel with a complete stranger.

You can solve most of your transportation problems with creativity and a willingness to be flexible. Be sure to plan your week ahead of time so you can identify days when you have transportation conflicts so you have plenty of time to make alternate plans.