My partner is a medical professional, which often means he’s away for long hours. When he’s home, he truly shines as a father and partner. Think Tickle Monster, creative Lego builds, and warm muffins fresh from the oven. However, there are plenty of days when my children and I venture out without him.
I take pride in managing my three kids throughout our bustling city. I once acquired a cumbersome triple stroller (and quickly decided it was more trouble than it was worth). Instead, I invested in scooters, balance bikes, and two-wheelers, allowing my older two to zip over to the nearest playground as I wrangle our little one. On those chaotic days when tempers flare, I strap on the baby carrier, despite my youngest already weighing close to 25 pounds, while I push the older ones in a double stroller.
At times, I find myself relying on the kindness of strangers to help navigate doorways or hoist that heavy double stroller up the three steps to our front door. My morning showers are frequently interrupted by the unmistakable sounds of my boys waking up far too early (“Mooooooommmmmm!!!! Is it morning yet?!?”). I tackle everything from fixing toys and pumping air into tires to replacing batteries, parallel parking, shoveling snow, and taking out the trash. In the thick of it all, I often refer to my life as “single-parenting.” But the truth is, I’m not really doing it alone.
No matter how often I’m faced with managing my kids solo, no matter how many responsibilities fall on my shoulders, I recognize that I will never truly understand the challenges faced by a single mother. Those incredible women are genuinely navigating this journey solo.
We flock to playgrounds whenever the weather allows—not just to release our little tornadoes from the confines of our homes, but also to find a sense of community with other local moms.
We join parenting workshops, breastfeeding support groups, and playdates. We sign up for teams, create carpools, and develop online forums and blogs—all in the name of connection. It’s become clear to us: we cannot tackle parenting alone.
When I’m pushing that triple stroller or loading and unloading three little ones from our minivan, when I’m trying to keep up with their needs during chaotic dinner times, or when Saturday mornings are spent brainstorming engaging activities for them, I sometimes feel overwhelmed. In those moments of self-pity, I pause and remember that, eventually, my husband will return home and remind me of the great job I’m doing, providing the emotional support I need, even if he can’t always lend a helping hand.
It must be incredibly isolating to face the reality that your partner may not just be late, but absent altogether. The thought of being “on your own” isn’t just a fleeting moment; it’s a constant state of being where you are your children’s sole support—and you also have to provide for your family financially.
So, I’m not really single-parenting—not by a long shot. But I want to honor those of you who are. You might be younger or older. Your kids might remind you of someone cherished you’ve lost, or perhaps someone you never had the chance to love or meet. You bear the weight of having all the answers—not only the ones your kids ask but also those posed by nosy strangers. You don’t have the luxury of saying, “That’s Daddy’s job” when faced with tasks you’d rather avoid. You never get the chance to sleep in as someone else handles breakfast. You change every diaper, soothe every nightmare, and you certainly don’t get sick days.
Who do you turn to for a break? Who do you confide in? Who do you instinctively call when you accidentally bump another car while parking (like I did just this morning)? How do you find the strength to meet every need your children have? Who loves your kids as fiercely as you do? Who reminds you that you’re beautiful—even in your sweatpants?
This is my tribute to you, Single Mother. If you’re still smiling, if your hair is brushed, if you’ve made it through another day—heck, if your kids are dressed—you deserve recognition.
I’d be happy to meet you at the playground anytime. If you’re also interested in learning more about home insemination, check out our post on the BabyMaker Home Intracervical Insemination Syringe Kit. For more insights on parenting, visit the best sleep suit for babies, an authority on ensuring your little ones rest well. Additionally, for valuable information regarding fertility, this resource is a must-see.
In summary, I admire the strength and resilience of single mothers everywhere. Your journey is unique and challenging, and your commitment deserves all the applause.