essay single parent

Home — Essay Samples — Life — Single Parenting — Being A Single Parent

Being a Single Parent

• Categories: Single Parenting

About this sample

Words: 517 |

Published: Mar 19, 2024

Words: 517 | Page: 1 | 3 min read

Table of contents

Introduction, 1. socioeconomic challenges, 2. emotional struggles, 3. societal stigmas, 4. strengths and resilience, 5. support networks, 6. positive outcomes.

Cite this Essay

Let us write you an essay from scratch

• 450+ experts on 30 subjects ready to help
• Custom essay delivered in as few as 3 hours

Get high-quality help

Prof Ernest (PhD)

Verified writer

• Expert in: Life

+ 120 experts online

By clicking “Check Writers’ Offers”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy . We’ll occasionally send you promo and account related email

No need to pay just yet!

Related Essays

2 pages / 919 words

4 pages / 1801 words

2 pages / 874 words

2 pages / 994 words

Remember! This is just a sample.

You can get your custom paper by one of our expert writers.

121 writers online

Still can’t find what you need?

Browse our vast selection of original essay samples, each expertly formatted and styled

Related Essays on Single Parenting

For many years, children growing up in a single parent family have been viewed as different. Being raised by only one parent seems impossible to many yet over the decades it has become more prevalent. In today’s society many [...]

Life without a mother presents unique challenges that touch the core of one's identity, relationships, and emotional well-being. This essay delves into the intricate tapestry of experiences that individuals face when navigating [...]

The experience of growing up in a single-parent household has become increasingly prevalent in modern society. A single-parent household is defined as a family structure in which one parent is responsible for raising the [...]

Single Parent Struggles are a reality faced by many individuals around the world. Being a single parent is a unique journey that comes with a multitude of challenges, yet it also embodies incredible strength and resilience. This [...]

With the passage of time, children grow up in such family would convince to believe or affected by their parents that the feelings of “I am odd” when compare with others. So, Single-parents should establish a sense of [...]

I choose this topic because it seemed the easiest and interesting to do. The interesting thing about this topic is that it is a real-world issue that would happen to any woman who is unmarried and has a child. I did not know [...]

Related Topics

By clicking “Send”, you agree to our Terms of service and Privacy statement . We will occasionally send you account related emails.

Where do you want us to send this sample?

By clicking “Continue”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy.

Be careful. This essay is not unique

This essay was donated by a student and is likely to have been used and submitted before

Download this Sample

Free samples may contain mistakes and not unique parts

Sorry, we could not paraphrase this essay. Our professional writers can rewrite it and get you a unique paper.

Please check your inbox.

We can write you a custom essay that will follow your exact instructions and meet the deadlines. Let's fix your grades together!

Get Your Personalized Essay in 3 Hours or Less!

We use cookies to personalyze your web-site experience. By continuing we’ll assume you board with our cookie policy .

• Instructions Followed To The Letter
• Deadlines Met At Every Stage
• Unique And Plagiarism Free

The Struggles of Single Parenting Essay

Introduction, financial challenge, finding competent childcare, the world on your shoulder, feeling lost and alone, introducing your child to those who you are dating, works cited.

Parenting is the central role of family, which is the basic unit of society. Thus, a society is characterized by the quality of parenting achieved at the family level. The stigma surrounding single parenthood is borne out of the contemporary notion that family comprises a father, mother and children (Hanson, 44). Single parent families are thus vilified on the notion that they are deficient.

In some instances, weakened gender-identity and poor self-esteem culminates from the existence of single parenthood. Parenting involves responsibilities and resources, which one individual cannot avail at the desired time and in the required proportion. Despite the significance of parenting to the life of an individual, little or no formal grounding is available for would-be parents on how to best execute the job (Hanson, 45). The concept of single parenthood highlighted is that of a single motherhood. As a result, most families characterized by single parenthood comprise of a single mother (Bornstein, 56). Growing up under the care of single parent has its influence on the personality of an individual.

In spite of the challenges facing single parents, the implicit differences in an individual’s personality cannot be accurately attributed to the type of parenting they receive. However, as postulated by McLanahan & Sandefur p1,

“Children who grow up in a household with only one biological parent are worse off on average than children who grow up in a household with both of their biological parents, regardless of the parents race or educational background, whether the parents were married when the child was born and …of whether the resident parent remarries”p1.

Single parent households face numerous challenges as discussed hereunder. However, these challenges are relative to the situation faced by families headed by both parents.

The ability of a single parent to avail sufficient financial resources for upbringing of a child is limited. Hanson (p56) posits that poverty limits the ability to look after children in addition to personal needs of the parent. It also has far-reaching adversities such as poor performance at school, youth delinquency and poor self-concept. The associated unavailability of proper housing, insecurity and abuse increase the influence of single-parenthood to development of a child in spite of the fact that wealth is no guarantee of positive outcome in character of the children.

However, resource availability boosts the affordability of some necessary amenities. As outlined by McLanahan & Sandefur (p 10), in 1980, the overall dropout rate was 19%, with 13% of the children residing with both parents. Most single parents experience compounded issues relating to finances. The inability to gain entry into the jobs market is borne out of socio-economic constraints. Most of them are non-literate or semi literate.

The lack of skills and competencies in income-generating activities contribute to their scenario in most cases. Single parents who are financially stable have higher chances of remarrying as well. Thus, most of the single mothers who experience financial constraints sink into a downward spiral into poverty. Single parents are in a dilemma when it comes to dealing with unemployment and scarcity of resources or having time for themselves and parenting their child. As observed, poverty is major contributor to inability to remarry after divorce or getting married in the first place.

Gone are the days when a neighbor would assist with household chores without asking for some form of compensation (Walsh, 138). Each individual is involved in income generation and it is common-practice for people seeking services of others to offer competitive pay. At the backdrop of financial constraints, a single parent finds themselves unable to afford childcare according to McLanahan & Sandefur (p 8). Since the single parent has to attend to her work responsibilities, part of the day’s prime hours are spend away from the child. Most workplaces are not considerate of such scenarios and do not have flexibility regarding day care (Hanson, 50)

Children require a father figure to which they can relate and adore. A single-parent family presents a scenario where the parents are not living together and takes away the opportunity of the child to experience the nurture of two parents. As a result, there is loss or absence of social capital. McLanahan & Sandefur (p 3) describes social capital as the scenario where a relationship develops out of trust and commitment.

If the absentee parent is alive, the child is bound to feel that the parent who lives apart does not love them enough to afford time and financial resources to support their needs. As articulated by Hanson (p115), uncertainty about the future is bound to breed deviant tendencies and undesirable personal traits. The ability of the child to succeed and grow to a productive adult is severely compromised due to lack of this form of guidance.

The arrival or departure of the father figure is associated with problems, while strong home environments are associated with perceptions of positive behavior (Hanson 50). Thus, support of a fatherly figure is of utmost necessity. As posited by Walsh, “Although single parents are likely to have more stress and a fragmented household, these parents and children can learn how get their needs met within their networks. With support from extended family…useful connection with community members…”p127

Data reveals that single parents are more likely to sink into depression than their married counterparts are (Walsh, 124). The unavailability of a caring partner to strengthen the single parent against the challenges of parenting is bound to exert immense pressure on the single parent. However, this relies on the level of support from friends, relatives or support groups. The changing roles of the single parent, in addition to the other challenges of parenting are bound to cultivate ground for loneliness. The parent has to divide their resources between their love and that of the child. As a result, decision-making becomes a challenge, since a second opinion may only be available from the child he or she is upbringing.

The dating scene presents another challenge to a single parent. Many times, the bond between the prospective partner and the child may fail to develop leading to the child disapproving of them. This occurs since the child feels that the prospective ‘partner’ has come to take the place of the absentee parent. As a result, the child develops barriers to frustrate the individual, culminating into tensions that compromise the success of the relationship (Moore et al, 103). On the other hand, the parent is unsure about the longevity of the relationship from the onset. Incase the child develop a bond with the prospective partner, it is possible that the child will be distraught in case the relationship does not work.

Single parenthood is a major challenge even in the absence of the above stated difficulties. However, the outcome of parenting is not necessarily related to the presence of two parents as observed from both cases of parenting. In spite of the challenges faced by single parents, no evidence is conclusive relating to the adverse impact of one-parent families to the personality of the children in adult life. As a result, parents should strive to avail the best possible care and nurture to their children regardless of their scenario

Bornstein, Marc H. “Handbook of Parenting: Being and Becoming a Parent, Volume 3” USA: Routledge, 2002, p 50-60

Hanson, Shirley M. “Single Parent Families: Diversity, Myths, and Realities, Volume 1” New York: Routledge, 1994, p 30-150

McLanahan, Sara and Sandefur, Gary D. “Growing Up With A Single Parent: What Hurts, What Helps” USA: Harvard University Press, 1994, p1-100

Moore, Kristin A et al. “Choice and Circumstance: Racial Differences in Adolescent Sexuality and Fertility”Transaction Publishers, 1989 p100-105

Walsh, Froma. “Normal Family Processes: Growing Diversity and Complexity”, New York: Guilford Press, 2003, p 120-128

• Chicago (A-D)
• Chicago (N-B)

IvyPanda. (2021, December 10). The Struggles of Single Parenting. https://ivypanda.com/essays/the-struggles-of-single-parenting/

"The Struggles of Single Parenting." IvyPanda , 10 Dec. 2021, ivypanda.com/essays/the-struggles-of-single-parenting/.

IvyPanda . (2021) 'The Struggles of Single Parenting'. 10 December.

IvyPanda . 2021. "The Struggles of Single Parenting." December 10, 2021. https://ivypanda.com/essays/the-struggles-of-single-parenting/.

1. IvyPanda . "The Struggles of Single Parenting." December 10, 2021. https://ivypanda.com/essays/the-struggles-of-single-parenting/.

Bibliography

IvyPanda . "The Struggles of Single Parenting." December 10, 2021. https://ivypanda.com/essays/the-struggles-of-single-parenting/.

• Sociological Significance of Family
• Parental Roles and Changes in the Last 50 Years
• Second Demographic Transition: Causes and Effects
• Solomon and Hanson: It’s Good Business
• Math: Factoring Using the P-1 Method
• The "Who Killed Homer?" Book by Hanson & Heath
• Local Area Networks Design for Hanson University
• "Too Big to Fail" by Curtis Hanson
• ”Preferences for Photographic Art Among Hospitalized Patients With Cancer” by Hanson ET Al.
• Film Studies: "LA Confidential" by Curtis Hanson
• Child Care in Infancy: Characteristic and Preference
• Postpartum Psychosis: Impact on Family
• Home-Start Family Supporting Program: Supporting Program for Children and Their Families
• The Controversies of Spanking: Effect of Regular Spanking
• Ethical Argument for Surrogate Motherhood

Argumentative Single Parents

This essay about the crime rates among single-parent households examines the nuanced differences between single mothers and single fathers. It highlights how external factors like poverty and societal biases, rather than the gender of the parent, play a more significant role in influencing crime rates. The discussion points out that single mothers often face harsher economic conditions and scrutiny, which can impact their children’s exposure to crime. On the other hand, single fathers, despite better economic standings, struggle with societal expectations and a lack of supportive structures, which can also affect their children. The essay argues for a broader societal effort to support all single-parent families by addressing economic disparities and social stigmas to foster environments conducive to positive child development and reduce crime.

How it works

Traversing the intricacies of solitary parenthood constitutes an inherently formidable expedition, regardless of whether it’s a lone matriarch or patriarch at the helm. However, delving into the realm of single-parent families within the context of criminal statistics demands a nuanced approach, teeming with sensitivity and a profound comprehension of socio-economic and cultural intricacies. The discourse on solo mothers versus solo fathers concerning crime rates encompasses various facets of societal configuration, law enforcement perceptions, and the burdens borne by solo-parent households.

Initially, it’s imperative to elucidate that establishing a direct correlation between single parenthood and criminality necessitates meticulous scrutiny. Studies indicate that crime prevalence among solitary-parent families is frequently influenced more by extrinsic elements such as impoverishment, neighborhood crime prevalence, and educational accessibility rather than the parent’s gender. Nonetheless, societal prejudices and stereotypes occasionally paint a dissimilar tableau, hinting at subtleties that warrant closer examination.

Historically, solo mothers have been subject to considerable scrutiny in discussions concerning family structure and criminality. They are disproportionately ensconced in lower economic strata, a variable that research demonstrates is more tightly interwoven with criminal activity than familial composition itself. Solo mothers frequently grapple with formidable hurdles such as diminished earning potential and restricted access to resources, which can obliquely impact their progeny. Research suggests that offspring in economically challenged solo-mother households may encounter augmented opportunities for delinquency, not as a consequence of maternal incapacity, but due to fiscal deprivation and attendant societal and environmental factors.

Conversely, solo fathers confront a discrete array of tribulations and perceptions. While they are less predisposed to abject poverty than solo mothers, they are not impervious to the vicissitudes that can sway familial stability and progeny outcomes. Solo fathers may reap the benefits of societal prejudices that favor masculine earning prowess, yet they also contend with an absence of supportive communal structures that are more readily accessible to solo mothers. The stigma surrounding male susceptibility and the cultural anticipations for men to be less invested in child-rearing can impede solo fathers from seeking or receiving assistance, potentially fostering milieus where antisocial behavior could proliferate among their offspring.

Furthermore, the interplay between law enforcement and solitary-parent families can diverge contingent on whether a solo mother or father is implicated. Gender-based disparities may surface in how solitary parents are perceived and treated by society and law enforcement, potentially influencing outcomes for their progeny. For instance, solo fathers might elicit greater empathy, viewed as assuming a role that traditionally isn’t theirs, whereas solo mothers might face more stringent judgment, engendering disparate stressors that impact family dynamics.

It’s also germane to contemplate the resilience evinced by both solo mothers and fathers in the face of these adversities. Many solitary-parent households defy odds, fostering nurturing and supportive atmospheres conducive to positive progeny development. The triumph tales of progeny from solitary-parent families who traverse the trajectory toward productive, crime-free livelihoods stand as testimonials to the fortitude and resolve of their progenitors.

In summation, while the discourse on solo mothers versus solo fathers concerning crime rates is intricate, it’s evident that economic and societal factors wield a more profound influence than the single parent’s gender. Endeavors to bolster solitary-parent families, regardless of whether helmed by a mother or father, should center on assuaging poverty, augmenting educational accessibility, and dismantling stigmas and stereotypes that deleteriously impact these families. Grasping and addressing the broader societal quandaries that shape these dynamics will profoundly aid in buttressing solitary parents and fostering environs where progeny can flourish, steering clear of paths leading toward criminality.

Cite this page

Argumentative Single Parents. (2024, Apr 22). Retrieved from https://papersowl.com/examples/argumentative-single-parents/

"Argumentative Single Parents." PapersOwl.com , 22 Apr 2024, https://papersowl.com/examples/argumentative-single-parents/

PapersOwl.com. (2024). Argumentative Single Parents . [Online]. Available at: https://papersowl.com/examples/argumentative-single-parents/ [Accessed: 6 May. 2024]

"Argumentative Single Parents." PapersOwl.com, Apr 22, 2024. Accessed May 6, 2024. https://papersowl.com/examples/argumentative-single-parents/

"Argumentative Single Parents," PapersOwl.com , 22-Apr-2024. [Online]. Available: https://papersowl.com/examples/argumentative-single-parents/. [Accessed: 6-May-2024]

PapersOwl.com. (2024). Argumentative Single Parents . [Online]. Available at: https://papersowl.com/examples/argumentative-single-parents/ [Accessed: 6-May-2024]

Don't let plagiarism ruin your grade

Hire a writer to get a unique paper crafted to your needs.

Our writers will help you fix any mistakes and get an A+!

Please check your inbox.

You can order an original essay written according to your instructions.

Trusted by over 1 million students worldwide

1. Tell Us Your Requirements

2. Pick your perfect writer

3. Get Your Paper and Pay

Hi! I'm Amy, your personal assistant!

Don't know where to start? Give me your paper requirements and I connect you to an academic expert.

short deadlines

100% Plagiarism-Free

Certified writers

• Entertainment
• Environment
• Information Science and Technology
• Social Issues

Home Essay Samples Life Single Parenting

The Struggles of Being a Single Parent

*minimum deadline

Cite this Essay

To export a reference to this article please select a referencing style below

• Bucket List
• Electric Car

Related Essays

Need writing help?

You can always rely on us no matter what type of paper you need

*No hidden charges

100% Unique Essays

Absolutely Confidential

Money Back Guarantee

By clicking “Send Essay”, you agree to our Terms of service and Privacy statement. We will occasionally send you account related emails

You can also get a UNIQUE essay on this or any other topic

Thank you! We’ll contact you as soon as possible.

• Environment
• Information Science
• Social Issues
• Argumentative
• Cause and Effect
• Classification
• Compare and Contrast
• Descriptive
• Exemplification
• Informative
• Controversial
• Exploratory
• What Is an Essay
• Length of an Essay
• Generate Ideas
• Types of Essays
• Structuring an Essay
• Outline For Essay
• Essay Introduction
• Thesis Statement
• Body of an Essay
• Writing a Conclusion
• Essay Writing Tips
• Drafting an Essay
• Revision Process
• Fix a Broken Essay
• Format of an Essay
• Essay Examples
• Essay Checklist
• Essay Writing Service
• Pay for Research Paper
• Write My Research Paper
• Write My Essay
• Custom Essay Writing Service
• Admission Essay Writing Service
• Pay for Essay
• Academic Ghostwriting
• Write My Book Report
• Case Study Writing Service
• Dissertation Writing Service
• Coursework Writing Service
• Lab Report Writing Service
• Do My Assignment
• Buy College Papers
• Capstone Project Writing Service
• Buy Research Paper
• Custom Essays for Sale

Can’t find a perfect paper?

• Free Essay Samples
• Single Parenting

Essays on Single Parenting

The problem of single parenting is very widespread and complex, so writing a single parenting essay about it will help with better understanding and will give you the opportunity to collect and express your thoughts. Single parenting essays tell us that there are a large number of single-parent families. It is very difficult to raise and support a child alone – physically, financially, and mentally. Samples of essays on single parenting reveal that in single-parent families child often don't get enough attention and feel neglected. Also, single-parent children don't get a healthy family image or learn as much about relationships, making it harder for them to build their own family in the future. Peruse our single parenting essay samples – the best ones are below. Know that we are here to help you out with your essay as well.

Effects of Divorce on Children When two people marry, they are publicly declaring that they are loyal to each other before death. Starting a family together strengthens the relationship and allows it to be completed as a full family unit. Unfortunately, certain things do not turn out, and marriages end in...

Words: 1158

For most families today, single parenthood was common. The majority of solitary childcare is for women or more for mothers. One parent raises a child without the other parent s support. Research shows that one out of two children in the United States are raised in a single family before 18...

Words: 1800

Found a perfect essay sample but want a unique one?

Request writing help from expert writer in you feed!

In 1993 Valerie Polakow wrote Lives on the Verge to deal with the plight of single mothers and their children in the "other" America. The term "other America" is used to indicate that in America there are two classes: the other America and the rest of the world. The "other"...

Related topic to Single Parenting

You might also like.

I was a single parent in the 90s. It was hard to make adult connections, and sometimes I wish I had had social media.

• My daughter is 32, and I raised her on my own.
• I got used to hearing "Oh, that must be so hard," but I didn't see things that way.
• The hardest thing I remember about solo parenting was feeling lonely.

One of the things I am most proud of in my life is raising a human to adulthood. My daughter is 32, and although she deserves much more credit than I do for how she turned out, I can't help having a little "Yay me" moment when I reflect on what an awesome human she is.

Although I'm married now and co-parent my two younger children with my husband, I raised my daughter on my own. The experience of parenting my daughter was vastly different than parenting my two sons, who are now 13 and 14.

I have a partner now who shares parenting responsibilities and decisions with me, but while raising my daughter, everything was on my shoulders. Having another invested person to look to and bounce things off of when I'm not sure about something is an entirely new experience.

The world is also different. Technology and social media have evolved, presenting new conveniences and timesavers, and also new things to worry about, like comparing our parenting to everyone else's.

Social media makes us compare each other's parenting

When people found out I was a single parent , a typical response was, "Wow, that must be so tough." I rarely thought of it that way, although I remember being lonely and broke. Looking back, I think being a single mom was hard. However, I think today's solo parents have a more difficult time due to the pressures of social media.

I discovered Facebook mom groups when my two youngest children were small. We adopted our boys in 2012 and 2013, and there was a Facebook mom group for everything. Adoptive moms, boy moms, toddler moms, all types of parenting styles — you name it, there was a ready-made Facebook community for it. At first, I was thrilled to have found a network that would make me feel less isolated. Then I started noticing the snarky, thinly veiled criticisms.

Related stories

I compared my performance as a mom to complete strangers on Instagram, wondering why no one else had a train wreck of a dirty kitchen and whether I was failing because I wasn't color-coordinating our outfits to go to the grocery store.

I'm not sure if I would have been able to take so many things with so many grains of salt back when I was in my 20s and a single mom.

When I see a picture-perfect family on social media, it's easy to let myself feel inferior and mentally list the things they're doing right that I'm doing wrong, but I'm usually able to curb that urge to compare too strongly. I remind myself that I've posted some things on social media that aren't representative of what's really happening in my life and that other people are probably doing the same.

For me, loneliness was the hardest thing about being a single mom

The hardest thing about solo parenting my daughter was limited adult interaction. I got my social fix at work during the day, but I would have liked someone to talk to after she went to bed at night. Being lonely, while never being alone, is something that surprised me about being a single parent and something definitely not in the manual.

I often felt like my personal identity was limited to being a mom and that outside cutting the crusts off of sandwiches and reading "Amelia Bedelia," I didn't really know who I was. "Work me" was serious and hardworking, trying to erase my mom persona while on the job. I knew a few other moms, but we were mostly too busy and exhausted to make time for friendships. The concept of self-care wasn't as widespread as it is today, and nobody really talked about what moms needed. I got it all done. My daughter was thriving, and I advanced at work, but there was always that pervasive sense of aloneness.

I sometimes wonder how my experience parenting my daughter in the 90s would have been made better or worse by the presence of social media. My experience with Facebook mom groups has taught me that they're mostly a place of judgment and one-upmanship. Still, there are nuggets of connection in there if you can handle weeding through the noise and occasional snark. I wonder if I was better off being isolated on my own island than I would have been connected to a digital environment that had the potential to be toxic.

Still, I envy today's single moms a little bit. People are more used to solo parents, and it seems more "normal." And, whether we call having access to an online community of moms that might be unhealthy, I like the fact that there's a choice now.

Maybe, in that sea of "I can't believe you're giving your kid that much sugar" and "Does anyone know what this rash is?" I would have been able to find my people. I'll never know for sure.

Watch: Why childcare has become so unaffordable

• Main content

• Science & Math
• Sociology & Philosophy
• Law & Politics

Essay on Single Parenting: Two Parents Or One?

• Essay on Single Parenting: Two…

Family life is much different today than what it used to be. Several years ago mothers would stay at home with their children while the father went to work to support his family, but it is nothing like that today in American households.

Today it is common for children to be raised by just one of their parents, and those children are often disadvantaged in several ways. The most consistent finding from studies of family structure shows that single parents exert weaker controls and make fewer demands on their children than married families do (Curtin et al. 368). There is a real easy explanation for this problem, it is the simple fact that two parents together make more rules and are more likely to stick by those rules than single parents are (Curtin et al. 368).

Single parents are not able to show the same emotions as married couples can because the love between a mother and a father plays an important part in a family. Children learn how to love from their parents, but if both parents are not there to teach them how to love, their love might be somewhat one-sided (Curtin et al. 371).

Yes, single parents can show their love toward their children, but they have no spouse to express love to. Children from single-parent families are therefore denied the learning experience of how a husband and a wife should love one another (Curtin et al. 369).

Relationships are another thing that everyone needs, especially children. Children need a real strong relationship between themselves and their parents, but children from single-parent families are usually denied this privilege because they are separated from one of their parents and often do not get to spend adequate time with the other.

Children who have a strong relationship with their parents are more likely to respect the authority of their parents (Curtin et al. 370). The problem with a single parent is the fact that usually, the single parent does not have the time to help the child develop a close relationship with them.

Another problem is how a child can build a strong relationship with a parent they do not live with and often do not see on a regular basis. The simple fact is that children need both of their parents in the household to build a close relationship with and to teach them to respect the parent’s authority. True, not all children from two-parent households have close relationships with their parents, but it is much more likely.

Gender also plays an important role in families. Men and women have very different characteristics, both emotionally and physically. These different characteristics contribute to their roles as mothers and fathers (Curtin et al. 369). For instance, men are normally much stronger physically than women and are therefore able to do many things around the house that a woman cannot.

Women are much more likely to do the everyday household chores while the man does the heavy-duty work. Women usually tend more to the children when they need things than do the men, and also help them more with emotional type problems (Curtin et al. 369). So it is easy to see why having both parents in the household makes a much more well-rounded family atmosphere.

When both parents are not in the household, children experience a great deal of stress from different aspects of their lives. This stress often comes from children who are forced into independence and self-reliance before they are mature enough to cope (“Children” 58).

Many single parents leave their children at home or send them to low-quality daycare centers while they are at work, causing stress on the children (“Children” 60). Yes, two-parent families often leave their children at home or send them to low-quality daycares, but studies show that it is ten times more likely to happen in single-parent families (“Children” 59).

Another time that brings a great deal of stress to single-parent homes is the holidays. The holidays are a time when families should be together. Single parents may not be able to provide this for their children (“Holidays” 3). Another problem that arises during the holidays is that of gift competition between the parents (“Holidays” 3). The problem with the parents competing over who gets the best gift is the fact that the children often feel as if the parents want to buy their love instead of earning it by showing them love.

Children of single-parent homes also face stress by always worrying about everything that is going on in their lives. According to Richard Kinsey single-parent children worried more about school, family, future, finding work, crime, and their environment by a large margin (16). However, the biggest worry of these children was about their own personal loves and what was going to happen to them as they grew up (Kinsey 16).

Richard Kinsey also did a survey on crimes committed by children in both two-parent homes and single-parent homes. He found that children in two-parent homes self-reported committing crimes at a rate of 59%, but children from single-parent homes self-reported committing crimes at a rate of 74% (16). This survey gives a strong emphasis on how important the respect of authority is for children. It also showed how children from single-parent homes are more likely to commit crimes than children from two-parent homes.

Single-parent homes not only reflect or cause stress upon children but also upon the parent. Single mothers especially feel stress when a father figure is not present (Allen et al. 390). According to the survey done by Katherine Allen and Peggy Quinn, seventy percent of the single mothers reported that they always worried about money (390).

Not only was money a big issue, but also time and energy (392). These single mothers are put under pressure from about every aspect of their lives, and without a husband there to help raise a family, pay the bills, and show them love, the single mother must nearly feel hopeless.

Another big stress for single mothers is the fact that now they have the responsibility of two parents (Allen et al. 392). One woman describes how she felt: “And on the weekends then, mow the yard, and clean the house, and wash the clothes.

When you get done doing that, it’s Monday all over again” (Allen et al. 392). Most parents from two-parent homes realize the responsibility they have and the stress that they face with a spouse there to support them, but just imagine that spouse not being there to help support and help with the responsibilities of the family and that is exactly what it is like to be a single parent.

Now we have seen the pressures that single mothers face, but what about single fathers because there are many of them in the world today. One example can be found in the article ” A Singular Experience,” by Brad Andrews. Andrews himself is a single father and he discusses the overwhelming responsibilities of being a single father (8). He now has to do all of the household chores and take care of the children all by himself.

He can no longer play catch with his son after dinner because now he has to do the dishes (8). These single-parent situations create instability and do not provide a positive environment for children to grow up in. Both a father and a mother are needed to create a stable environment and a positive place for children to live.

Another example is the article “Single Fathers With Custody” by Alfred DeMaris and Geoffrey Grief. DeMaris and Grief explain the fact that single fathers experience the same worries and overwhelming responsibilities that single mothers do. Fathers face financial worries, pressures from work, and pressure of time for themselves and their children (DeMaris et al. 260).

The simple fact is that being a single parent is a very difficult task, whether it is a single father or a single mother. A family consists of a father and a mother with their children, not just one parent. Single-parent homes create a lot of stress and worries on the parent as well as the children, and the stress and worries are not needed by either. After all, it takes two to make a child; it should take two to raise a child.

Related Posts

• Essay: Is Daycare Good for Children or not?
• Essay: Issues of Surrogate Parenting
• Essay: The Drawbacks of Single Gender Schools
• Essay Analysis Structure
• Different Types of Parents

Author:  William Anderson (Schoolworkhelper Editorial Team)

Tutor and Freelance Writer. Science Teacher and Lover of Essays. Article last reviewed: 2022 | St. Rosemary Institution © 2010-2024 | Creative Commons 4.0

This was definitely written by a teenager that lives with two parents.

You do not know that, I’ve lived with one parents all my life and some of these things I would agree with.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Post comment

20 Scholarships for Students from Single-Parent Households

According to the Pew Research Center , approximately one quarter of children in the United States are raised in single-parent families. While it’s not as uncommon as it once was, growing up as the child of a single parent can carry its own set of unique opportunities and challenges. Some children report closer familial relationships, while others struggle to make ends meet. For single-parent families that only have one income, educational costs can represent an especially significant burden. Fortunately, there are a number of high-quality scholarships that provide financial assistance to students raised by single moms, dads, or other single guardians.

To qualify for many of these single-parent scholarships, you’ll need to complete the free application for federal student aid (FAFSA®) and calculate your expected family contribution (EFC) to your college education. Not sure how to begin? Use our custom tools to figure out your EFC and answer the FAFSA®’s trickiest questions . Then sign up for Going Merry to find even more scholarships specifically for you. 

20 Scholarships for Children of Single Parents  

It doesn’t matter if you lost a parent to illness or an accident, or if your parents simply divorced when you were young: These awards apply to dependent children from single-parent households of all kinds. So, if you were raised by a single mom or dad, start your scholarship search here. 

1. Vincent Bennett Jr. Memorial Scholarship

Amount: $20,000

Provider : First Responders Children’s Foundation

Eligibility Requirements :

• Minimum GPA of 2.7 on a 4.0 scale
• Enrolled or planning to enroll in a college, university, or technical or vocational institution
• Child of a law enforcement officer or firefighter who died in the line of duty

Application Requirements: Transcript, 3 letters of recommendation, student aid report, financial aid award letter, proof of U.S. citizenship or legal permanent residency, proof of acceptance or enrollment, personal statement, headshot, list of honors and awards, picture of first responder’s ID or letter from employer

Named for Vincent Bennett Jr., a passionate member of the First Responders Children’s Foundation, this four-year award provides financial support to one exceptional college freshman each academic year. To be eligible for the Vincent Bennett Jr. Memorial Scholarship, you must be the child of a firefighter or law enforcement officer who was killed while on duty. While there’s no required field of study, students pursuing engineering will be given preference. Community service and high academic achievement will also help set you apart.

2. The Toby Merrill Scholarship

Amount: $9,700

Provider : The Toby Merrill Scholarship Fund

• Minimum GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale
• Enrolled or planning to enroll full-time in a college or university

Application Requirements: Essay, list of extracurricular activities, list of honors and awards

Toby Merrill was a committed dad, husband, and friend who tragically lost his life to cancer. To honor Toby, his family and friends created the need-based Toby Merrill Scholarship to help students who have lost a parent pay for their higher education. Because Toby was committed to community service, scholarship recipients will need to complete 10 volunteer hours each year to renew their scholarship. While it’s not a requirement for entry, the award gives priority to students experiencing hardship due to bereavement and/or cancer. 

3. First Responders Children’s Foundation Scholarship

Amount: Varies

• Biological child, adopted child, or stepchild of a first responder who died in the line of duty 

If you’re the child of a first responder who was killed in the line of duty, the First Responders Children’s Foundation Scholarship could help you pay for college. The award amount varies each year, but the maximum award amount is $6,250, and it can be renewed annually for up to four years. Priority goes to applicants whose parent passed away while on the job. (Stepchildren of deceased first responders qualify, too, as long as they were listed as a dependent on tax returns prior to the first responder’s death.)

4. Jennifer Casey Alderman Scholarship Award

Amount: $10,000

Provider : Twisted Pink

• Indiana, Kentucky, Ohio, or Tennessee resident
• Minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
• Child of a parent who died from metastatic breast cancer 

Application Requirements: Essay

Twisted Pink works to further research and access to care for people with metastatic breast cancer. In honor of Jennifer Casey Alderman, a mother and wife who lost her life to the disease, the organization created the Jennifer Casey Alderman Scholarship Award . To apply, you’ll need to write an essay about any topic of your choosing. (Need help with your essay? Use Going Merry’s essay tips to help you write the perfect one.) You’ll also need to provide proof of your eligibility via an obituary, death certificate, or letter from your parent’s medical oncologist. Scholarship recipients can renew the award each subsequent year for $2,500 annually. 

5. Ava’s Grace Scholarship

Amount: $5,000

Provider : The Scholarship Foundation of St. Louis

• Missouri or Illinois resident (limited to the following Illinois counties: Bond, Calhoun, Clinton, Jersey, Macoupin, Madison, Monroe, or St. Clair counties) 
• Minimum GPA of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale
• Enrolled or planning to enroll in a college or university
• Child of a parent who is or has been incarcerated in a U.S. penitentiary (state or federal)

Application Requirements: Transcript, completed FAFSA®, student aid report, personal statement, resume

The Scholarship Foundation of St. Louis sponsors the Ava’s Grace Scholarship for students who have at least one incarcerated parent. The award was named for Ava, who founded the scholarship in response to her own mother’s incarceration and her desire to use education to break the incarceration cycle. To qualify, you must have been a resident of Missouri or a few select counties in Illinois for a minimum of two years. Priority goes to students with an expected family contribution (EFC) of $1,500 or less. (If your EFC is greater than $1,500, you can still apply, but you’ll need to demonstrate extenuating circumstances.) In your personal statement, write about how having an incarcerated parent has affected your education, development, and goals for your future. This grant program is renewable for up to eight semesters. 

6. The 9/11 Promise Scholarship

Provider : 9/11 Promise

• Under the age of 25
• Child of a first responder or armed-services member who died in the line of duty 

Application Requirements: 2 letters of recommendation, essay, personal statement, list of honors and awards

The 9/11 Promise Scholarship was originally created to honor those who lost their lives in the 9/11 terrorist attack in New York City. Today, the award goes to 11 deserving young students whose lives have been irreparably changed due to the loss of a first-responder parent. The amounts vary between $5,000 and $15,000. This college scholarship can be used to fund undergraduate or graduate studies as well as to finance a trade or vocational degree. The essay prompt asks students to write about what they’ve learned by having a first responder for a parent. (You’ll also need to provide proof of death and documentation of your parent’s service.)

7. ReWritten Scholarship

Provider : ReWritten

• Enrolled or planning to enroll in a college, university, or trade or vocational school
• Child raised by a single mother

Application Requirements: Personal statement

Statistically, children raised without fathers are more likely to live in low-income communities, face imprisonment, die by suicide, or run away from home — but ReWritten wants to re-write that story. To support students from fatherless households, they’ve created the ReWritten Scholarship . The award ranges from $500 to $5,000 and is intended to help college students gain access to a brighter future. To apply, students should submit a written plan for their higher education and demonstrate financial need. 

8. Life Lessons Scholarship Program

Provider : Life and Health Insurance Foundation for Education

• 17 to 24 years of age
• Child of a parent or legal guardian who is deceased 

If you’ve lost a parent or guardian, the Life Lessons Scholarship Program is aimed at helping you afford higher education. This award is open to both undergraduate and graduate students. To apply, write an essay or record a three-minute video discussing how the death of your parent impacted your life and your plans for your future. This award is sponsored by Life and Health Insurance Foundation for Education, so if relevant, be sure to explain how a lack of appropriate life insurance impacted your family financially. The award amount varies, but the total amount for all prizes (usually around 40 total) will be $250,000. 

9. The Family Scholarship Fund

Provider : The American Society of Safety Professionals Foundation

• Child of a parent who died in a workplace incident

Application Requirements: Transcript, essay

As part of their mission to support those in occupational safety or health careers, the American Society of Safety Professionals Foundation created the Family Scholarship Fund . The fund works to offset college costs for students who have lost a parent in a workplace incident. The award amount varies by year and financial need. Because application requirements are fairly open-ended (students can be pursuing a degree either full-time or part-time, for example), the selection committee considers each application on an individual basis. For the best chance of winning, write an essay detailing how the loss of your parent affected your life.   

10. Operation Second Chance Scholarship

Amount: $3,500

Provider : Operation Second Chance

• Enrolled as a high-school senior
• Child of a veteran who died from injuries related to combat deployment

Application Requirements: Transcript, student aid report, proof of acceptance or enrollment

Operation Second Chance works to support veterans and their families. To that end, the nonprofit offers its Operation Second Chance Scholarship to the children of veterans killed in combat. To apply, you must be a high school senior planning to pursue higher education in the upcoming school year.  There is no GPA or standardized test score requirement, and students can be planning to attend any kind of post-secondary school: community colleges, universities, vocational schools, and trade schools are all fair game for eligibility.  

11. Colwell Law Single Parent Scholarship

Amount: $1,000

Provider : Colwell Law

• Enrolled in a college or university
• Child raised by a single parent

Application Requirements: Transcript, essay, resume

Colwell Law, a firm that specializes in family and divorce practice, understands how much of a financial burden it can be for single moms and dads to send their kids to college. To help bridge that gap in financial support, they endow the Colwell Law Single Parent Scholarship . The award is open to children of single parents as well as to single parents themselves. The application includes an essay where applicants should share how living in a single-parent household has shaped their values, character, and goals. 

12. The Quell Foundation Survivor Scholarship

Provider : The Quell Foundation Irene Pasierb Memorial Fund

• Minimum GPA of 3.4 on a 4.0 scale
• Child of a parent, caregiver, or sibling who died due to suicide

Application Requirements: Transcript, personal statement

The Quell Foundation Irene Pasierb Memorial Fund is passionate about improving education and reducing the stigma around mental illness. The Quell Foundation Survivor Scholarship is given annually to students who have lost a parent, caregiver, or sibling to suicide. The scholarship opportunity is open to current high school seniors planning to pursue a bachelor’s degree, as well as to current undergraduate and graduate students. Your personal statement should include how your family member’s death has affected your life and education. (Refer to our tips to craft a compelling personal statement that will help you stand out from the crowd.) 

13. Encore Protection Victims of Drunk Driving Scholarship

Provider : Encore Protection

• Child of a parent who died due to a drunk-driving accident  

Encore Protection provides roadside assistance to drivers across the United States. As part of their goal to improve driver safety, Encore is passionate about ending drunk driving. In an effort to support this cause, they’ve created the Encore Protection Victims of Drunk Driving Scholarship . This award helps students who have lost a parent to a drunk driving accident afford post-secondary education. To apply, you’ll need to write an essay addressing the effects of drunk driving — both on you and on the community at large. 

14. The Lisa Michelle Memorial Fund Scholarship

Provider : The Lisa Michelle Memorial Fund

• Child of a parent who died due to alcohol, drug, or prescription drug abuse

Application Requirements: Transcript, proof of acceptance or enrollment, essay

The Lisa Michelle Memorial Fund was created in honor of Lisa Michelle, a mother who tragically lost her battle with addiction. The Lisa Michelle Memorial Fund Scholarship supports one deserving student each year who has lost a parent to alcohol or drug abuse. This scholarship opportunity asks students to write an essay about their experience of losing a parent to addiction. In your statement, be sure to explain how a college education will impact both you and your family.  

15. FOZA Scholarship for Maternal Mental Health Awareness

Provider : Friends of Zayne Adams, Inc. 

• Black/African American, Hispanic/Latinx, and/or Native American
• Enrolled or planning to enroll in a college, university, or trade or vocational school 
• Child of a parent who died by postpartum depression-related suicide 

Postpartum depression is a common and often undiscussed illness that affects up to approximately 15% of new mothers, according to the National Library of Medicine . Zayne Adams’s mother was one of them. After he lost her in the first month of his life, his mother’s friends and family came together to create the FOZA Scholarship for Maternal Mental Health Awareness . This scholarship award helps children who have lost a mother due to postpartum depression-related suicide. To apply, you’ll need to write an essay expressing why community service is important to you. This award is open to students pursuing undergraduate, associate’s, and/or trade degrees. 

16. Tuition and Fee Exemption for Children of Deceased or Disabled Veterans Grant

Amount: Full tuition and fees

Provider : State of Indiana

• Indiana resident
• Under the age of 33 
• Child of a U.S. armed-forces member who died or was permanently disabled in the line of duty

Application Requirements: Completed FAFSA®, student aid report

Unlike a lot of scholarships on this list, the Tuition and Fee Exemption for Children of Deceased or Disabled Veterans Grant is a grant program funded by the Indiana Department of Education. This program was specifically created for students who both reside and plan to pursue a college degree in the state of Indiana. To maintain eligibility, students must remain enrolled in a degree program at a public university or college. If you qualify for this grant, you will have up to eight years to use the assistance, so you can pause your studies at any time and come back to school later as needed.

17. Redrick Leijon Nicholas Williams Scholarship

Provider : Greater Emmanuel Temple Church

• Los Angeles county resident 
• Black/African American male 

Application Requirements: Transcript, 3 letters of recommendation, essay, video essay

Greater Emmanuel Temple Church, a cornerstone of the local Black community in Los Angeles, created the Redrick Leijon Nicholas Williams Scholarship to support Black men raised by single mothers. The award gets its name from a strong community leader and Greater Emmanuel Temple Church member who worked tirelessly to help his single mother support his four younger siblings. To honor his strength, this award goes to one graduating high school senior each year. You must be entering either a two- or four-year program to qualify. In addition to a written essay, students must submit a 90-second video about their mother, including her sacrifices and the role she played in the applicant’s life. 

18. The Foster Hope Award

Amount: $500

Provider : Foster Hope

• Wisconsin resident
• Enrolled in a college or university 
• Have experienced an adverse life event

Application Requirements: Transcript, 2 letters of recommendation, proof of residency, essay

Originally created for children raised in the foster care system, the Foster Hope Award has been expanded to include all Wisconsin students who have experienced childhood hardship. To win it, you must have experienced an adverse life event — like losing a parent — and be able to write an essay explaining how you’ve demonstrated hope in the face of adversity. Applicants who are a resident of Central Wisconsin or have attended the Royal Family Kids Camp will receive preference during the selection process. You’ll also need to be attending a college or university in-state.  

19. Iraq and Afghanistan Service Grant

Provider : U.S. Department of Education

• Child of a U.S. armed forces member who died during service in Iraq or Afghanistan
• Ineligible for the Pell Grant based on your expected family contribution, but meet all other Pell Grant eligibility requirements 

Application Requirements: Completed FAFSA®, student aid report, proof of U.S. citizenship or legal permanent residency

The Iraq and Afghanistan Service Grant is a grant program funded by the U.S. Department of Education. To be eligible, you must not qualify for the Pell Grant due to your EFC but must meet the other Pell Grant requirements for financial need and U.S. citizenship. The award amount varies each year, but cannot exceed the amount of your tuition. If you qualify, you’re eligible to receive this grant for up to 12 semesters. All you have to do to renew is continue to fill out the FAFSA® each year. 

20. Children of Veterans Tuition Grant

Provider : State of Michigan

• Michigan resident 
• 16 to 26 years old 
• Child of a U.S. armed-forces member who died or was permanently disabled due to service 

The Children of Veterans Tuition Grant is a grant program designed to help Michigan students earn the college degrees of their dreams. To qualify, you must have a parent who is a veteran and who died or was permanently disabled during the course of their service. The award is renewable for up to four years or for $11,200 as long as the recipient maintains an overall GPA of 2.25 or higher. The scholarship amount varies based on financial need as determined by the FAFSA® and your course load, but the maximum for a full-time student is $2,800 per year. 

Get more scholarships delivered to you with Going Merry

Losing a parent — either to death or to personal circumstances — can come with unimaginable grief, not to mention serious financial hardship. That’s especially true if you grew up in a low-income community. Only having one breadwinner can make pursuing a college education more difficult, but it doesn’t have to prevent you from receiving your degree. Thanks to the growing number of scholarship opportunities for children from single-parent homes, financial assistance is within reach. 

If you need help keeping track of application deadlines, making sense of financial aid, or finding other relevant scholarships, Going Merry has you covered. Our intuitive, easy-to-use platform curates awards just for you based on your financial need, personal preferences, and interests.Simplify your scholarship search and application process by signing up for Going Merry today. 

• Recent Posts

• How to Answer the 2024-25 Common App Essay Questions - May 2, 2024
• How to Write a Strong Letter of Recommendation for College - April 30, 2024
• How to Create the Ideal Student LinkedIn Profile - November 9, 2023

Ready to find scholarships that are a match for you?

24 things single parents want you to know in 2024

If a superhero is a fictional character with extraordinary or superhuman powers, then single parents are real-life superheroes . 

No, they don’t wear masks or have X-ray vision (unless they work in radiology). They probably can’t teleport you across space and time or even scale a building. And they easily blend into a crowd (unlike the Incredible Hulk ). 

So, what is so heroic about single parents? They have one of the hardest jobs in the world (aka parenting), and they do it alone. 

March 21 is National Single Parents Day – a day signed and declared by President Ronald Reagan in 1984. It’s a day to celebrate and recognize those who have the daunting responsibility of raising their kids without the support of a spouse or partner.

THIS EPIDEMIC IS AMERICA'S MODERN CIVIL RIGHTS CHALLENGE

In honor of these superheroes, our team at Solo Parent, a nonprofit organization created by single parents for single parents, gathered a list of 24 things we want non-single parents to know in 2024 (and beyond): 

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

Encourage us (please!)

Raising kids alone is really hard and encouragement goes a long way. We like being told we’re doing a good job and need you to recognize and honor what we’ve been doing.

We’re not always sad and struggling

There are so many stereotypes about single parents, and they’re not all (or always) true. Hollywood often depicts single parents as frazzled, sad, struggling and usually down-on-their-luck. And that may be true, but let’s be real: every  parent experiences this at some point. 

We need your help but won’t always ask 

Single parents often feel the need to soldier on and single-handedly bear their load. We don’t want to seem needy – and maybe there’s a little pride thrown in there too. But, we could really use a carpool partner or some help painting the kitchen. We probably won’t ask you for help, but that doesn’t mean we don’t need it.   

‘TWO-PARENT PRIVILEGE’ AUTHOR SOUNDS ALARM ON CONCERNING MARRIAGE TREND'S IMPACT ON CHILDREN

We feel seen when you offer to help  

It’s OK to not know how to help us, but don’t avoid offering entirely. We’d love for you to reach out. Sometimes it’s better to tell us what you can do or are going to do instead of asking what we need ("I’m going to mow your lawn this afternoon" or "Drop your kid off at my house; you need a break"). It gives us some much-needed mental relief. 

Spouse away for the weekend? Please don’t call yourself a single parent

We know it can be playful and fun to try and relate to us in this way, but the truth is, it’s not the same. We don’t have someone coming back home in a few days. Single parenting is a reality for us every day. 

It’s OK to show up with meals 

Showing up with a meal is always a good idea, especially for single parents who are juggling so many different plates. The relief of not having to plan one more meal is huge , and it shows you’re thinking of us, which means a lot. 

We need safe people willing to talk about what’s real 

You don’t have to tiptoe around us when talking about divorce or death. We welcome the hard conversations and feel more cared for and seen when you’re willing to go there. And sometimes just listening goes a long way.

THESE ARE THE 10 BEST CITIES IN AMERICA FOR SINGLE PARENTS

Just because we’re single, doesn’t mean we want your spouse

Let’s just state this one loud and clear: We want everyone to know… just because we’re single, it doesn’t mean we want your spouse. So please don’t avoid hanging out as a couple. If you’re uncomfortable, say something. The last thing we want to do is jeopardize our relationship with you and your family. 

Encourage our kids

Kids raised by single parents need encouragement too. Our kids don’t have two parents living together, speaking life into them, so the more intentional adults they have around, the better. 

We want to be invited and included

As single parents, we already feel different enough. Even if we can’t always make it or logistics are tricky, we still want to be invited. We want to feel like we belong. Sometimes people assume we’re too busy – and sometimes we are! But nobody likes to feel excluded. 

We’re not as uncomfortable being a third wheel as you may think 

Are you ever planning a gathering and as you make your guest list, you realize it’s going to be all couples – and that one single friend? There’s a perception that since we’re solo, we won’t want to come to an event with other couples, or we’ll feel like a third wheel. Guess what? We want couples friends, too. 

GRANDPARENTS MAY HAVE SIGNIFICANT IMPACT ON A MOM'S MENTAL HEALTH, STUDY FINDS: ‘WISDOM AND EXPERIENCE’

Being single is not always a bad thing

Single parent life is hard but not bad – especially if you’ve been in a toxic relationship. There are worse things than being single – we may even enjoy our single status! 

Even though we’re busy, you can still ask us for help

We want to give back to our communities, and more importantly, we want to show our kids how to show up and give back. If we’re able, we would love to contribute, whether it’s teaming up for some yard work or volunteering in the community. Let us help!

Our kids still need a village

Having a village of people or a community that helps raise our children is so important. They’re our lifeline. Our boys need healthy men in their lives , and our girls need strong women. However, you can show up and be a village for our kids, just know we welcome it!

We don’t hate everyone of the opposite sex

We are not male bashers or women haters. There are lots of negative perceptions around how some single parents feel based on their life experiences. As stated above, please don’t assume.  

We’re not all in a rush to get remarried or be in a relationship

Sure, some single parents want to get right back into a relationship, and many do. But that’s not true for all of us. Some of us never want to date again, believe it or not. Others of us just don’t know, but we’ll certainly let you know when we’re ready.

SINGLE MOM OF TRIPLET TEENS REFUSES TO THROW INDIVIDUAL SWEET 16 BIRTHDAY PARTIES: ‘TOLD THEM NO’

Single parenting is hard regardless of our parenting plan

Being a parent is hard. Single parenting is doubly hard. It doesn’t matter whether we have full custody, parent every other weekend, or something in between. Every situation comes with its own unique hardships. 

Don’t overlook the single dad

Just because a single parent doesn’t have full custody doesn’t mean they don’t need encouragement. This is especially true for single dads because a majority of people think "single mom" when thinking about single parents. But, for every single mom, there’s a single dad – and if they’re involved in their child’s life, they are important and need encouragement just like anybody else. 

Free babysitting from trusted sources goes a long way

No explanation needed. 

Emotional support matters 

It’s not always obvious, but at times we just really need someone to talk to. We want a listening ear. We don’t have anyone to vent to or unwind with when we get home from work.

We’re not looking for your sympathy or pity

We have been through a lot and are very strong as a result. We don’t want you to feel sorry for us, but we do want you to be with us. Your empathy provides us with the comfort, compassion, and understanding that we need. 

CLICK HERE FOR MORE FOX NEWS OPINION

Flexibility is important because things can change on a dime

If our kid gets sick at school, we often don’t have anyone to help by going to pick them up. We may need to move meetings, cancel plans, etc. Pro tip: If you have flexibility and can be an alternate pickup person for us, please offer!

Praise us in front of our kids 

If you give a single parent a shoutout, please do it in front of their kids. We’ve all been kids before and know it can be hard to really "see" our parents and what they do right. If you praise me for something, it really reinforces my role as a parent to my kids. 

It could be: Congratulations on buying a house; I know you worked a lot of extra hours to do this!  Or maybe: I noticed you helping out the coach at soccer practice. He really needed that support.  Or even: Did you know that your mom is an excellent baker? We always enjoy her treats at the office. 

There is a community for single parents out there! 

Thanks to technology, we're able to quickly connect with others around the globe. Solo Parent helps join together single parents looking for a caring space to form safe and encouraging communities. Through weekly groups, a podcast, free resources, an annual conference and much more, single parents can rest assured: You don't have to walk through this season alone. Encourage single parents you know to download our free Solo Parent app to access these resources and more!

Hopefully, after reading this list, you feel more equipped to reach out to the single parents in your life. If you’re a single parent, we want you to know that solo parent life is hard, but it can actually be one of the most rewarding and transformative seasons of your life. Remember, you’re doing a great job! 

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM ROBERT BEESON

Original article source: 24 things single parents want you to know in 2024