The idea of raising a child without a father can be overwhelming.
How can I raise a child without a father?
The fact is that 43% of U.S. children live without their father.
I’m not arguing that it is ideal to have both a mother and a father raising a child. However, there are many children who have grown up without a father for a number of reasons. Many famous and successful adults have been raised by single mothers.
If your child’s father is not (cannot or will not) be in the picture that does not mean your child can not grow up without a father-figure. Father-figures can have a profound affect on the life of a child. Brad Paisley said it well:
And then all of a sudden oh it seemed so strange to me
How we went from somethings missing to a family
Lookin' back all I can say about all the things he did for me
Is I hope I'm at least half the Dad that he didn't have to be
He was talking about a step-father, but there are other ways to have a father-figure in your child’s life:
1.Big Brother Big Sister- This is an organization that has been around for more than 100 years. “Brothers Big Sisters makes meaningful, monitored matches between adult volunteers (“Bigs”) and children (“Littles”), ages 6 through 18, in communities across the country. We develop positive relationships that have a direct and lasting effect on the lives of young people.”
2. Teaches/Coaches- It doesn’t have to be one person. Positive Teachers/Coaches can make a huge impact on a child’s life.
3. Church- If you are a member of a church there might be a youth minister that serves as father to many. Also, get involved with church trips and groups. Your child will be surrounded by father-figures.
4. Other relatives- Don’t’ forget grandfathers, uncles, cousins, and godfathers. These men make excellent father figures.
As Father’s day approaches, take a minute to think about the other father figures in your life. Thank them if they are around. And, if you are overwhelmed at the idea of raising a child on your own, call us, we can talk to you about your concerns.