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Single Parents
MommyKristin88
member
What constitutes a single parent?
MommyKristin88
member
I don't know whether I'm still considered a single parent, so I want your opinion!
When I was 6 months pregnant with my daughter, I broke up with her father. So, he did not meet her until the day before her 2nd birthday. During that time I was definitely a single parent.
Now, I'm dating someone else, and am pregnant.
Am I still considered a single parent to my daughter? Is it based on being single (not in a relationship). Is it based on who supports the child (I have applied for child support, but still going through the process. To date, in a little over 2 years, I have received $230 from my daughter's father. He sees her two weekends a month though).
I still feel like a single parent to my daughter, since I'm basically her sole financial supporter, but does my new relationship mean I am not a single parent?
Thanks guys!
This discussion has been closed.
Re: What constitutes a single parent?
Yes, until such a time as you are in a committed relationship and the other party contributes to the welfare and upbringing of your daughter on a daily basis you are a single parent. So if you and your BF get married and/or are living together and he is actively assisting you in raising her you are going to be voted off the island.
What say the rest?
LOL, I know I am over thinking it!! I was wondering because my boyfriend got offended yesterday when I told someone I am a single parent. We live together, so since he pays bills, buy food, and does other things that benefit my daughter, he said I am not a single parent. I thought I was since I am not dating her father. Makes sense though...
BFP 3/29/2014 2u2 Let's do this!
Does he watch her when you're not there? Take her places on his own? Do they have a relationship independent of you? Can he put her to bed? Do you get to sleep in some mornings? I am thinking we may be holding a vote...
Yes, to all of the above.
Now that I think about it, he does play the "daddy" role. He's even going to pay her $250 per week preschool while I'm on maternity leave for 8 weeks. In reality, he spends more time with her and does more for her than her dad does. I understand now why he was offended.
I think I will kick myself out of the single parent club now lol
BFP 3/29/2014 2u2 Let's do this!
Some husbands don't watch their children on their own, put them to bed, etc. Douchyhusbands, but still.
If the couple is living together, then I would not consider OP a single mom. And if I were her live-in dude, I'd be hella offended if she said she was. Just because you're not married and/or in a relationship with the bio-dad does not always mean you're a "single mom."
I wonder what the guy you're currently dating would say. Would he be offended because he helps so much and you live together? Does he differentiate between your kid and the baby you will have together?
I think if you feel like a single parent then I guess you are. Also I don't think it has a lot to do with finances. I plan on seeking child support. However with no other adult here to watch, feed, or dress my LO I will clearly still be a single parent regardless of the CS I may receive.
I"m also wondering why you're asking this? Don't worry, no one will kick you out of the board if you find a happy, loving, supportive relationship ;-)
I should have read the posts before replying. If he is living with you and caring for your DD like his own, then he is parenting with you and you are not "officially" a single parent. I would be offended if I was in his position too!
However I don't think there are a lot of other places that would understand BD drama, so you still carry some of the single parent baggage. Luckily you have found a guy to help you carry that baggage!