Contents
- What is single parenthood?
- What are the causes of single parenthood?
- The benefits of single parenthood
- Tips for being a single parent
- Celebrities on single parenthood
While we appreciate that being part of a single parent family can have its trials and tribulations, it can also be deeply satisfying and bring moments of true joy and achievement. We want to highlight the benefits of being a single parent and offer tips on how to stay positive when day-to-day life can seem overwhelming.
What is single parenthood?
Single parenthood is when there is one parent who lives with one or more dependents and does not have a wife, husband, or live-in partner. Also known as lone-parent families, about 30 percent of America's families with children under 18 years old, amounting to 10 million households, are single-parent families. The share of American families with children living with a single parent has tripled since 1965.
In 2020, there were about 15.31 million children living with a single mother in the United States, and about 3.27 million children living with a single father. Therefore, there’s a good chance that you're a single parent or you know someone who is raising children alone.
What are the causes of single parenthood?
There are many causes of single parenthood, such as:
- Infidelity
- Divorce
- Abandonment
- Domestic violence
- Death
- Young pregnancy
And while some of these causes, of course, bring sadness and difficulties to a single parent household, we should also remember that some people become single parents by choice.
A growing number of adults are choosing to adopt, foster or use IVF; in fact, 20.5% of adoptive parents are single females and 6.5% are single males.
The benefits of being a single parent
While it may often feel overwhelming and like you’re not meeting all your child’s needs, remember that every family is different and whether you’re a single parent by choice or not, your child has the same chances of growing up to be a well-rounded individual as any other child.
Here are some of the benefits of being a single parent; refer to these when you’re having “one of those days”.
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You make all the decisions
Spearheading a lone-parent family means that all choices are on you, and that doesn’t need to be as daunting as it sounds! From which school they attend to what they have for dinner, you have complete liberation to make those decisions without double-checking with anyone. Apart from your little one, of course. 😉
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You’ll form a powerful bond
You’re sure to form a super-special bond with your child as you are the main caregiver. Think of all the one-on-one quality time you’ll spend with them and the beautiful memories you’ll create together.
If you have separated from a partner or had a divorce, there may be some re-bonding to do with your child if they are splitting time between parents. This gives you the chance to find some common interests or to explore completely new ones together.
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No arguments, lots of smiles
This is particularly valid if you are coming out of a divorce or separation. Take your time to enjoy the bliss of a household that’s not being fractured by arguments. Living amongst fights and quarrels is exhausting for all concerned, so while being a single mother or father can be tough, it would be tougher to stay together and continue fighting.
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Your child’s support network will grow
By choice or not, being a single parent automatically gets the troops rallying around to help. Your family and friends are sure to want to offer help and support when they can. This can instill some real comfort into your child and make them feel surrounded by love and care. 💖
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You will make lasting, important friendships
Nothing quite bonds adults like taking on single motherhood or fatherhood. Whether it’s bumping into new pals in the school car park or taking the kids on weekend playdates together, expect to be swapping single-parent advice pronto along with exchanging the highs and lows of taking on this mega feat alone.
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Your child will look up to you as an independent parent
Over time, your child will see what and how much you do for them. They will value this so much and will also learn that it’s totally fine and manageable to move through life without a partner.
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There’s no ‘i’ in team
Let’s be honest, looking after a child and a household is no small task. Don’t be scared of asking your little star to help you around the house; they’ll appreciate the responsibility and also learn how to be independent. Try rewarding them for chipping in with the chores and treating them like you’re both part of a team.
Tips for being a single parent
Being a parent, single or not, is difficult, and you can often face times when you feel like you’re not doing a good enough job. But you are. However, if you’re seeking a little guidance and advice, we’ve got you.
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Embrace it
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Open the communication lines
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Lean on friends and family
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Don’t forget you
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Find the right childcare
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Stick to a routine
Celebrities on being a single parent
Some of the world’s biggest celebrities are single parents and they’re more than happy about it, so let these inspirational words motivate you into becoming the best single parent you can be. 🤗
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Angelina Jolie
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Sophia Vergara
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Mindy Kaling
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JK Rowling
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Jennifer Lopez
Prioritizing your child’s education is also important, so if you think they could benefit from some extra help, our GoStudent tutors are at your service! See for yourself with a free trial session!