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Two-parent homes aren’t the key for all

Manisha Aggarwal-Schifellite

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Why single-parent homes don’t affect Black children as negatively as white kids

Social policy and popular culture promote the two-parent nuclear family as an ideal structure for raising successful, healthy children. But the reality of family life in America looks very different from that: Half of all children spend time living with a single parent, and one in three spends some time living with an extended relative. Christina Cross , a postdoctoral scholar and incoming assistant professor in the Sociology Department, has studied this disconnect, analyzing the relationships between family structure and individual well-being in areas including health, education, and socioeconomic mobility. In a paper published last month in the Journal of Marriage and Family , Cross looked at the connection between family structure and children’s educational outcomes and found racial and ethnic differences that were counterintuitive and largely unexplained. The Gazette spoke to Cross about rethinking the ideal family, the limits of demographic research, and policy alternatives for alleviating poverty in America.

Christina Cross

GAZETTE:  What are your research findings?

CROSS: As I was reading the existing literature on this topic, I kept noticing the same finding over and over: that even though children who live outside of the two-parent family tend to fare worse than those who live with two parents, minority children are less negatively impacted by this. Scholars have speculated that maybe this has something to do with minority families having a stronger extended family support network than white families or perhaps that they are more frequently exposed to socioeconomic stressors such that the independent effect of living apart from a parent is just not as pronounced. However, I had not come across a study that empirically tested these possible explanations. So, I spent a couple years tracking a nationally representative sample of about 2,600 children’s living arrangements, their access to economic resources, and their interactions with extended relatives through the Panel Study of Income Dynamics (PSID), which is the longest-running household panel study in the world. And what I found was that both sets of factors helped account for group differences in the effect of family structure. However, the socioeconomic-stress argument helps explain relatively more of this puzzle.

GAZETTE:  Why is that?

CROSS:  One way to think about this is that economic resources play an important role in parents’ ability to provide the material resources that children need to thrive. When children have two parents in the household who are able to pool resources, they are less likely to live in poverty. However, for minority children, and black and Hispanic children in particular, even when they live in a two-parent family they’re still two to three times more likely to be poor. This has a lot to do with the structural disadvantages that these groups face. I don’t mean to suggest that economic resources are the only things that matter for children’s success — parenting and family stability are also important. However, I do find that economic resources play a key role in determining children’s educational success. This is pretty unfortunate and sobering, but I think it’s important because our current welfare legislation, the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996, emphasizes the importance of this two-parent family model.

GAZETTE: Can you explain more about how current policy promotes this version of family unity?

CROSS: One example of this kind of policy is the Healthy Marriage Initiative, implemented under the administration of George W. Bush. States were given the opportunity to take hundreds of millions of dollars allocated for welfare and use the money to create programs to try to encourage low-income families, who are disproportionally families of color, to get married and stay married. Many researchers have found these programs to be largely ineffective, and if we recognize that the benefits of this arrangement aren’t equal [in the first place], then perhaps we shouldn’t divert funds away from these poor families to try to get them to get married. This isn’t to say that I or most researchers think that marriage is problematic, because I don’t, but I don’t think that’s the best solution to fixing poverty.

“It’s important that we shed light on and recognize the diversity of American families today. If we continue to overlook their experiences, it will be difficult to better understand them and create more inclusive policies.”

GAZETTE: Are there some policy alternatives that might better serve families outside of the two-parent nuclear family model?

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CROSS: I would point to the research of other scholars like Darrick Hamilton and [William A.] Sandy Darity , who have come up with some interesting and potentially viable proposals to reduce inequality in America. An example of that would be baby bonds, where every child born in America is given a bond of a certain amount based on income, so families with more money will get less and families who have fewer dollars get more toward the bond. The bond then grows over the child’s life course and that would help them pay for things like college, which we know is getting increasingly expensive. So, if we were to take the money that we’re using for marriage-promotion initiatives and put it toward something like a baby bond, I suspect that we might address more directly the financial hardships that families are facing.

GAZETTE: Are there any others that strike you as promising?

CROSS: Sociologists have also known for some time that one of the biggest drivers of inequality in America is housing segregation. There’s a high concentration of poverty in certain communities, which means that people don’t have access to basic resources like quality schools and other community resources. If we could focus on creating opportunities for more affordable housing, or even better, offering people a living wage, I would speculate that those initiatives would probably be more effective than trying to get single women to get married.

GAZETTE: In your paper, you study data on Black, white, and Hispanic children, which you write is a rare occurrence in sociological research of this kind. Why was it important for you to include more diversity in your analysis?

CROSS:   Much of the literature in this area hasn’t focused on racial differences in family structure effects in general, but when they do it’s typically focused on the differences between Black people and white people. We know that America is much more demographically diverse than that. I included the now-largest ethnic minority group, which is people who are Hispanic or Latino, and I wish I could have included more groups but, unfortunately, I just didn’t have enough respondents in the study in order to make any types of inferences about them. I think my paper paints a more diverse picture of American families, and it’s important that we shed light on and recognize the diversity of American families today. If we continue to overlook their experiences, it will be difficult to better understand them and create more inclusive policies. It’s unfortunate, because it almost goes without saying, but we as researchers haven’t done enough of that work yet.

GAZETTE: Do you think your findings indicate that this is a case of policy not matching up with reality?

CROSS: I think that’s an issue. Research, and policy even more so, is disconnected from the demographic realities of American families today. There is such an emphasis, and it’s explicit in the welfare reform goals we discussed, on the two-parent nuclear family. There’s nothing wrong with that family structure, but I think when we hold onto that framework it prescribes and circumscribes what we see as legitimate in terms of family life. That limits our ability to craft policies that can be effective in supporting families, because families that are the most disadvantaged are typically not two-parent nuclear families in the first place.

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How Does Society View Single Parents? Research Paper

Introduction, single parent, how society views single parenthood, works cited.

Single families face various challenges as they try to bring up their children like other families. They also face stigmatization in some societies where they are rejected and disapproved. In addition, some religious sectors like Islam and Christianity do not show open support for single parenthood, especially if its causes are contrary to their beliefs.

Single parents therefore face problems from all corners, ranging from schools, government positions, and society at large. Caring for their children is also a challenge as they have to ensure that children grow just as the others who have both parents.

One of the most difficult problems facing single parents is how to integrate into the society with their families. Most societies only recognize married couples as able to raise children in an effective way. Furthermore, children find themselves isolated when in learning institutions as others embrace both parent while they glare in awe (DePaullo 1).

Causes of single parenthood vary and usually lead to different societal views. For instance, single parenthood arising from death of one partner is usually considered correct. However, it does not shoulder the responsibilities that come with it. On the other hand, single parenthood arising from separation and divorce face integration problems in the society, apart from the increased responsibilities.

This disparity in how the society and community at large treat single parents has raised concern all over the world. Their isolation in some States has led to poor development of their children as they are left to offer parental duties to the children. This paper will try to argue out whether societal judgment of single parents based on its cause is justifiable. It will also endeavor to explore the problems faced by single parents in detail (DePaullo 1).

A single parent refers to one who cares for one or more children without the help of one of the biological parents of the child or children. Different nations have varying laws related to single parenthood.

These laws determine how those families are treated or served by their respective governments. Single parenthood may be caused by either of these, choice or unexpected circumstances. The latter include death of one of the parents, abandonment which may occur in tough conditions, parents who neglect their children may cause them to rely on the others for both needs, teenage pregnancies or children born outside marriage.

Single parenthood caused by choice includes scenarios such as surrogate motherhood, child adoption, divorce and separation between biological parents as well as artificial insemination, among others. These factors that cause single parenthood also influence their way of life. It is estimated that most single parent families face prospects of poverty given the increased responsibilities (DePaullo 1).

Some Governments like the United States, UK, Australia, among others, in which there is high rates of single parent families have devised ways of assisting them.

For instance, United States had about 13 million single families in 2006, among which those headed by females were about 80%. This is quite a high rate and the effects are real as they try to make homes for these families. The UK estimated that 52% of single parent families lived below their defined poverty line in 2009, with over 3 million children raised by single parents.

This survey estimated that the UK had about 1.9 million single parents, a very high rate comparing its size and population with the United States. Australia also had over 14% single parent families, a very high number to work with. This has forced government to come in with strategies to assist them given their exposure to poverty and stigma (DePaullo 1).

Society is very instrumental in helping single families integrate well with other members of a community. Of great concern is the fact that most societies categorize single families based on the causes of their status. In most cases divorcees are seen as a bad influence in societies without considering its causes, the church shuns divorce and this makes it very difficult for divorcees to integrate well in the society.

This makes them look like sinners among other congregation. Also, society considers these families as failures and do not approve of their dealings. Some sectors of religion even disapprove integration with such people as they assume that they are bad influence to the supposed ‘clean’ society. This has cause stigma to such families as their children face all sorts of scorn and unanswered questions from their parents (DePaullo 1).

Furthermore, those single families that are caused by unexpected circumstances like death still face some sort of isolation although not to an extent of those caused by choice. In most societies, isolation comes in facing and shouldering of family responsibilities for these single parents.

Schools are areas of challenges for children and parents from single parenthood. Even single parent teachers face discriminations in schools, making it much more difficult for mere students or parents. The stigma that comes with such problems are likely to leave them isolated in community projects and other societal activities.

That is why it is quite important to address such problems as single parenthood, which in most cases, rarely comes out of choice. Most people find themselves in such situations and therefore need communal support as well as government assistance to help them become important channels of development in the society (Richards 277-285).

The paper discusses whether it is right or justifiable to judge single parents based on the causes of their status. Conservatives usually consider single parenthood caused by choice as a taboo in the society. On the other hand, modern societies have continued to embrace single parenthood irrespective of the cause.

Nonetheless, Religious sectors feel that these developments cause societal degradation and pollution of a once ‘clean’ society. These sentiments are usually shared by most religious sectors which abhor such actions. Should society judge single parents based on causes of the status? The following discussion would provide a clear answer to that (Richards 277-285).

Single parents should be judged based on causes of their status

There are several reasons that would make one believe that single parents need to be judged based on causes of their status. For instance, those parents who decide to divorce knowing very well the coming repercussions that would overwhelm them and their children should be discouraged from doing so, when the community or society makes divorce a taboo, this discourages unnecessary divorce.

When these families are not discouraged the society will be polluted and derailed. Such behaviors, on purpose should be discouraged as they may lead to distortions in family values. The world is full of various events and problems, people should be ready to persevere, and this would help in uniting many families (Richards 277-285).

When children have both parents, then their development is well taken care of. Children without one of their parents often end up in mix-ups such as early marriages, teenage pregnancies, stereotype against other genders, which is very destructive to a normal society.

Drug abuse in teenager is mostly connected to child negligence or abuse. Societies will never tolerate child abuse, and negligence. Therefore in that regard, it is important that single parenthood by choice is discouraged in the society. This will help in ensuring good moral values in the community (Richards 277-285).

In that respect, parents should be discouraged from making difficult choices for their children, in divorcing. As much as life is quite difficult and full of distrusts, parents should try as much as they can to avoid such issues, this will be good for their children. It is very important to have children in marriage with both parents fulfilling their responsibilities. Most single parenthoods are as a result of parents neglecting their responsibilities.

This has to be discouraged at all costs, because those who suffer in such situations are children as well as the single parent. Therefore, society is justified in dictating pathways that its members should take, without which; they should be held responsible (Sacks 10).

Single parents should not be judged based on their status

Single parents are just like other people in the community; their status is mostly due to happenings that are beyond control, for instance, when divorce occurs, one of the divorcees usually ends up disappointed or victimized, we cannot judge victims as this would be contrary to societal beliefs. In that regard, single parenthood caused by divorce should not be condemned.

Moreover, some parents neglect their children due to family burdens; some people cannot afford to adequately provide such services to their children and without intending to do so, ends up neglecting their own children. Society should consider these children as their own, with responsibility for their protection lying on their shoulders.

Single parents also need full backing from governments and other related agencies, to boost them both financially and emotionally. In addition, it is important to note that children that suffer from such situations are never at fault, society should therefore endeavor to provide adequate support for these children, physically, and most importantly emotionally by backup their parents (Risman 1049).

Single parents therefore face problems from all corners, ranging from schools, government positions, and society at large. The argument above emphasizes the fact that single parenthood should not be done at will, through careless divorce or neglect of children.

The first argument for society’s justification in judging or isolating single parents, especially those caused out of choice argue that when this is encouraged, people will neglect their responsibilities out of simple problems that can be solved amicably (Richards 277-285).

The second argument, against society’s justification states that even though some people neglect or divorce out of small differences, there are victims of divorce who need to be protected by the society and provided with necessities to enable their children succeed in life.

It goes on to state that these children need protection and love, which only the society can provide. Neglecting them is suicidal for a community that needs to focus on the future.

Moreover, as has been stated above, neglected children tend to enter into bad groupings that would eventually cost society its gains. The society is there to safeguard its members and this cannot be achieved if children are neglected irrespective of the cause. It is therefore important to note that society is not justified in their treatment of single parents (Quinlan 376-390).

It is important to state that single parenthood is a difficult task, as the needs of children are shouldered by one individual. It is also imperative to note that most single parent occurrences are never out of both parent’s wish, but unexpectedly, or out of situations that are quite difficult to understand.

The complexity of such situations ends up in divorce leaving children to one parent, who may or may not have the capability of providing all the requirements. In this regard, as much as society may be justified in their judgment, single parents need support both from the community and government.

They are isolated and feel deprived of social pleasure. These should be accorded to them as required since they too are citizens, who works hard for the good of the nation. They should be allowed into high positions without questions as to their single parenthood; this will boost their morale and have a positive effect on their children (Pong 23-42).

DePaullo, Bella. “The Scientific Study of People who are single: An Annotated Bibliography”. Association of single People . 17.05.2011.17.05.2011. Web.

Pong, Suet-ling. “The School Compositional Effect of Single Parenthood on 10th Grade Achievement”. Sociology of Education 71:1 (1998), 23-42.

Quinlan, Robert. “Father absence, parental care, and female reproductive development”. Evolution and Human Behavior . Volume 24, Issue 6, November 2003, Pages 376-390.

Richards, Leslie and Schmiege, Cynthia. “Family Relations”. Family Diversity . Vol. 42, No. 3, pp. 277–285.

Risman, Barbara, and Park, Kyung. “Just The Two of Us: Parent-Child Relationships in Single-Parent Homes”. Journal of Marriage and the Family . 1988, 50, 4, Nov, 1049.

Sacks, George. “Boys without fathers is not a logical new idea.” Arkansas Democrat-Gazette. Little Rock: Arkansas.

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The Single-Parent Family

Reviewed by Psychology Today Staff

A single parent is someone who is unmarried, widowed, or divorced and not remarried. The single-parent household can be headed by a mother, a father, a grandparent, an uncle, or aunt. According to the Pew Research Center, between 25 to 30 percent of children under age 18 in the U.S. live in a single-parent household. The U.S. Census reports that roughly 22 million children live with a single parent. And three times as many women, when compared with men, head these households .

On This Page

  • The Well-Being of Children in a Single-Parent Household
  • The Challenges of Single-Parent Families
  • Raising Kids as a Single Parent

Single parents should be reassured by the fact that a large number of studies find no differences between the children of single mothers and children from other types of households. One study looked into the lives of children from different kinds of households—two-parent biological, adoptive, step-father, step-mother, single-parent—and the type of household did not matter. Children’s grades, and their relationships with their siblings and their friends, were about the same across all households. In a survey of adolescents living in nine types of households, those who lived with parents who had always been single and who were being raised in multi-generational households reported the highest sense of well-being of all those surveyed.

In studies as well as many reports from children themselves, children are better off raised by a single parent as opposed to living with married parents who engage in constant conflict. Children raised by one divorced parent sometimes have better outcomes than children raised by a parent who is remarried. It is impossible to predict a child's outcome based on this one factor alone. 

Yes. Every situation involves trade-offs, and they often go unrecognized at the time. In a common refrain, the grown child of a single, working mom reported that he was glad that his mom was busy all the time. His friends, by contrast, had moms who stayed at home. These parents were hyper-involved in their lives, including their schoolwork and schedules. This overbearing participation produced problems between parent and child.

Yes, but this is a risk for married parents as well. Some parents rely too heavily on a child for emotional support. These individuals become enmeshed with their child because of their own low self-esteem, loneliness, neediness, insecurity, or other similar reasons. These parents lack boundaries, preferring to be a best friend rather than a parent.

The vast majority of the children of single parents flourish at home and in later life. In a national survey of substance abuse among more than 22,000 adolescents from different kinds of households, the rate of substance abuse among the children of single parents was 5.7 percent, and the rate for the children of married parents was 4.5%. 

Not at all. More often, the children of single parents defy all stereotypes . If problems arise, they likely already existed when a child's parents were married or arise independent of the household configuration. These children were struggling in their nuclear family. Researchers who followed children of married parents for more than a decade, not knowing in advance whether the parents would stay married or divorce, found that among the children whose parents did divorce and who had problems, their difficulties began at a young age.

Children need a safe and reliable household to flourish. Of course, it is much harder for single-parents who live with financial hardship. The Bureau of Labor Statistics data show that nearly 11 million people are considered working poor. The definition of working poor is an individual who spends 27 weeks or more in the workforce, this person is working or looking for work, yet their income is below the poverty level. And according to the U.S. Census, single moms are one of the most disadvantaged groups—with nearly 30 percent living in poverty. Many of these single moms cannot provide for their families as they often have lower-paying jobs.

Being the sole parent of a household may mean you are the boss, free of quarrels over money and finance. That’s great, but according to research, it costs $234,000 to raise a child . This price tag impacts the high risk of financial hardship.

This should not be a source of concern or guilt, even though it often is. Children of mothers who return to work while the children are infants and toddlers, fare the same behaviorally and academically compared with children whose mothers stay home. In one study, kids from single-parent families , whose mothers worked, had better academic scores and fewer behavioral problems than did children whose mothers did not work.

The U.S. Census Bureau reports that at two years after the breakup of their family, nearly 50 percent of children who live with their mother do not see their father regularly. Many fathers are often shortchanged by custody arrangements. However, a father showing interest and being involved with his children is a huge plus for all. One way to help this along: Help your ex. Pick up the children from school, attend their functions, and cheer them on at games--this involvement can make a difference. Helping your ex will help you. By being an involved father, you and your kids will find ways to spend more time together.

To raise successful children in any family configuration, stability and security matter. Single parents can help ensure such an environment by developing a supportive network of friends, relatives, and neighbors. People who care. For those with extreme financial hardship, there are resources in your community including assistance for housing, food, and healthcare for children, depending on income and other criteria. 

To raise thriving children, a single parent must juggle many aspects of life, the household, work demands, finances, among many other concerns. All parents face similar obstacles, but the challenge for a single-parent is greater.

Set house rules with your kids.

Give undivided attention to each child, even a daily 10-minute one-one conversation will help.

Set boundaries, boundaries, boundaries.

Be consistent and fair, always.

Kids need schedules and routines (sounds boring, but it works).

Lower your expectations, and do away with any ideas of perfection.

Lose your sense of guilt, victimhood, and martyrdom.

Ignore judgmental people.

You need support through good childcare, friends, family, neighbors.

If possible, get along with your ex. (To do so, you need to get over yourself.)

Apply self-care daily, eat right, exercise, sleep, meditate. (If you do not have time, make the time.)

If you need therapy, a good family therapist will help.

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What I Learned From Growing Up With A Single Parent

single parent home essay

Growing up with a single parent is special, but it's not easy. If I've learned anything throughout my 23 years on this planet, it's that a single parent will do anything it takes to make you happy and give you the best possible life they can. But doing any major task alone is stressful and difficult; you'll have your rough patches that are unique to a single parent household. However, that doesn't mean growing up with a single parent is any worse than growing up with any other type of family. In fact, from my experience, it may even be better.

A single parent is often not home

To a person who grew up in a two-parent household with a bunch of siblings, this may seem pretty sad. And I'm not going to lie, parts of it did make me sad, especially when I compared my home life to other kids'. But not getting to see my mom all the time was also my "normal." Every family is different and has a different daily routine. When you're the child of a single parent, you get used to the fact that they can't always be there. But the best part of my day was always when she came home from work at seven o'clock and I could finally see her and hug her and jump on her. It made me deeply appreciate the moments we did have together, and it made them more precious to me.

Other people play a huge part in raising you

A single parent just has to work, work, work — there's no way around it. So while you sometimes miss out on spending time with your parent, you also get to grow up with a network of people around you who chip in and care about you. It wasn't only my grandfather and aunt who watched me and raised me; it was babysitters, too. To this day, I'm still good family friends with my favorite babysitter, who now has a husband and two kids. As an only child of a single parent, I got to branch out and keep lasting relationships with others, even if I didn't have the luxury of spending more time with my mom.

You sometimes doubt how much your parent cares

As an adult, I know now that she was far from apathetic as she worked relentlessly to provide me with anything I wanted. No family, no matter how many people it is composed of, is ever 100 percent happy 100 percent of the time. The kind of unhappiness I dealt with was particular to a single parent home, but other kids have their own kind of unhappiness with their home life, too. It's just different.

It's stressful for the both of you

Since a young age, I've always struggled with depression and anxiety — it's just part of who I am. My mother knew this, too, as I had been in child therapy as early as eight years old. So one day when I was about 14 and I refused to answer any of her phone calls — for whatever stupid teenage reason — she absolutely lost it on me when she came home. She bolted upstairs to my room, busted through the door and was visibly freaked out. I had never seen her so upset and scared before. She had thought the worst, that something had happened to me, and it was then that I realized how hard it is for her to be a parent all on her own. I learned it wasn't just about me. I learned my mother had feelings, pressures, and stresses too, which is something you don't think about when you're young and your parents seem invincible to you.

You learn independence at a young age

The negative side of growing up with a single parent is feeling a sense of neglect at times. The positive side of that same issue, though, is that you learn independence at a very young age. Since your parent is often away from home and working, you have to grow up a little bit faster than your peers. You have to be the adult in the house when your parent isn't around. Because my mom was frequently absent, I had to learn how to be strong on my own. I had to learn how to be responsible for myself and for others. When my mom couldn't field an electrician's visit because she was at work, I had to do it. I also had to make sure the dogs were fed and properly taken care of. Simultaneously, it was about adopting a lot of self-discipline, because I needed to be the one who made sure all my work was done. My mom didn't pester me about my responsibilities because she had her own. As a result, I became more mature more quickly and learned things about the world and about growing up that my peers didn't learn until much later. Thick skin and independence is absolutely invaluable as you become an adult.

You realize exactly how hard they work for you

When I was little, I often asked the question, "Why isn't she here for me?" Now that I'm grown, I look at my mother in awe and ask the question, "How the hell does she do it all?" Not only is it impressive from on objective standpoint, but it is the best model for hard work that I've ever seen. Watching her work so hard ceaselessly has pushed me to do my absolute best. I'm always looking for more work to do and I never think that anything is impossible so long as you keep grinding away at it. I always want to give as much of myself as I possibly can to my work, and even still, I feel like I pale in comparison to the effort my mother has put in over the years. She's taught me that nothing worth having in life comes easily, and it's one of the most valuable lessons I've ever learned.

A two-parent household isn't automatically better

Growing up with a single parent came with its challenges, but I also grew up seeing what other kids' family lives were like. If I'm being frank, a lot of two-parent households I knew of were way worse than my own situation. Parents would fight or be estranged from each other, causing problems for their children. I've seen two-parent households with much less income than my single parent household had (not that we're rich, though), simply because they lacked motivation to do better in life. So no, just because a person has two parents doesn't mean they're better off than someone with a single parent. I've seen parents who are absolutely lazy and dysfunctional, and I've seen my mom who is a go-getter and a highly moral, kind person. You tell me what's better.

They're always going to be your superhero

My mom and I don't have a perfect relationship, but there's not one day that goes by that I don't see her as my superhero. I still deal with lingering feelings of neglect sometimes, but I also have a friend — not just a mother — that I can always go to. She doesn't know all the answers, but to me she is infinitely wise. She can't be everywhere at once, but she can do anything. If I've learned anything from growing up with a single mom, it's how to be a strong woman, a woman who is not afraid to strive and persevere when life gets tough, and a woman who will never back down even on her weakest day.

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The Struggles of Being a Single Parent

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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. 

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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.

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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.

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Raising Kids in Single-Parent Households

Readers react to a guest essay arguing that the growing number of such households is bad for the children.

A black-and-white Polaroid photo of a family sits on top of a yellow backdrop with blue dots interspersed. One blue dot obscures the face of the father in the photo.

To the Editor:

Re “ The Rise of Single-Parent Families Is Bad for Kids ,” by Melissa S. Kearney (Opinion guest essay, Sept. 20):

Ms. Kearney does little more than moralize, concluding that single parenthood is “hurting our children” because children “do better when they are raised in two-parent homes.” She condescendingly explains how it is “a simple fact of math” that one-parent families have less income than two-parent families while ignoring the existence of child support laws.

What Ms. Kearney is missing is that the steep rise in single-parent families could be due to the fact that women did not even have a viable option of being single parents only a few decades ago. They would not have been able to pursue a stable career that could support their children, and definitely could not rely on high-quality, publicly supported child care.

While one could argue that those things are not attainable enough now, it’s all relative. There are more financial opportunities for women and support for parents than in the past, so people can begin to design the healthiest romantic and family structure that works for them. That’s a good thing.

As a single parent myself, I think about what makes the life I enjoy possible: financial security through a union job, child support, universal prekindergarten, quality health care, a community with great babysitters as neighbors and access to homeownership.

With these opportunities and support in place, I’m able to raise my child in the happiest home of my own design, with agency to decide whether a partner is a net positive. The focus should be less on defining the ideal family structure and more on supporting all parents so that no one stays in a marriage out of necessity.

Allison Rasko Washington

Melissa S. Kearney presents the financial discrepancies experienced between two-parent families and single-parent families as the primary cause of poorer outcomes for the single-parent children.

Of potentially equal significance is the psychological experience of a single parent. A co-parent offers support and may ameliorate adverse behaviors of one parent toward their children.

An alliance between parents allows both to provide and develop appropriate responses to the developmental needs of their children in a mutually supportive fashion.

Single parents do not have this. They must make the difficult decisions in raising children alone. For many this will not be an issue for either parent or child, but for others it can be a source of tension. This may be manifested in the children’s school performance or later in life.

Sidney Weissman Highland Park, Ill. The writer is a clinical professor of psychiatry and behavioral science at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine.

Melissa S. Kearney believes that “surely we as a society can openly recognize the advantages of a two-parent home … without stigmatizing single parents and their children,” yet even in her essay arguing for this she’s unable to do so. Her essay does nothing but stigmatize single-parent families, mine included (I am college-educated, for the record — there are, in fact, many of us).

Surely The New York Times could have found someone to present this perspective with more sensitivity and an ounce of understanding of the complexities and variations among single-parent households. We are not a monolith.

I would write more, but I don’t have time — I’ve got to figure out what I can do to make sure my son does not “get in trouble in school or with the law,” as Ms. Kearney says is more likely growing up in a home without a dad.

Sarah McKaig Santa Monica, Calif.

President Biden has already found a solution to child poverty without any need to address so-called “two-parent privilege.” It’s not another parent, a ring or family values, as Melissa S. Kearney seems to maintain. It’s financial support in the form of expansions to the child tax credit and earned-income tax credit. However, they have expired, contributing to child poverty more than doubling in 2022.

Gayle Gubman Riesser Lawrenceville, N.J.

What is missing from the article is the fact that 80 percent of the single-parent families have a woman as head of household. The question that is not answered in the article is why are women raising a family without the father of the children present in the household?

Granted that some husbands are not good partners or providers, and may be abusive, but does that explain the entire 80 percent? The article covers many aspects of how to improve the quality of life for single-parent families, and the disparities between the quality of life in single-parent and two-parent families, but it does not drill down on why single-parent families are on an explosive rise.

Edward Frost Ipswich, Mass.

My thanks to Prof. Melissa S. Kearney. For teachers like me, the difference in student attendance, achievement and behavior in students from two- versus one-parent homes is stark and blazingly obvious. Shame on us for ignoring what’s in front of us, and kudos to those brave enough to share unpopular truths.

Christine Allen Dublin

With all due respect, I don’t agree with Melissa S. Kearney’s analysis. In my many years as an elementary school teacher I saw plenty of two-parent families with difficult children as well as the well-behaved and competent ones from single-parent homes.

Many children are better off without two adults who are constantly fighting and making a household filled with strife. Look around at the many famous individuals from the arts to politics who have come from one-parent homes and thrived.

What needs to be done is not condemn those who are unable or unwilling to be part of a two-parent family and instead spend money to fix the root of this: poverty, along with lack of education, parenting skills training, job training, affordable health care and child care. Improve these things and children might grow up to be better people as well as better parents.

Daina Schuman Stamford, Conn.

While there are some valid points in this Opinion piece, such as the need for more governmental support for lower-income single-parent families, I disagree with the premise that single-parent families are bad for kids.

As a single adoptive mother I have raised my child on one income and have not received any governmental support. I ensured that my child had day care so that I could work full time.

My child has not suffered any of the detriments cited in this piece and is in fact earning a higher income than I had. I doubt that I am the only single parent who has raised a child to be a successful, productive, well-rounded, intelligent and secure young adult.

I fail to see how a dual-income, college-educated, married couple is the only good way to raise a kid.

Regina M. Adducci Bethel, Conn.

The Zen Parent

The Zen Parent

The Pros & Cons Of Being A Single Parent

Posted: May 29, 2024 | Last updated: May 29, 2024

Being a single parent comes with a lot of freedom - after all, you don't need to consult with a partner first before making decisions or planning things. For some single parents, this can be incredibly empowering. It can help you grow as a person and become more confident in yourself.

1. Independence and Decision-Making

It's not uncommon for many single parents to be a lot closer with their children. After all, you're going to be having a lot more one-on-one time with them every day! This gives single parents a unique opportunity to develop deep connections and an even better understanding of their kids.

2. Stronger Bond with Children

It's not easy being a single parent. You're going to go through plenty of difficult times and hard challenges, but it'll all be worth it. Not only will you grow as a person to become a strong individual, you'll become more resilient too. And while it'll be hard in the moment, you're going to undeniably feel a really strong sense of accomplishment when you look back.

3. Personal Growth and Resilience

It's always good to see the bright side of things, and being a single parent, one of the biggest perks is flexibility. You get to shape your family how you want to - what are your values, goals, and preferences? From setting weekly routines to creating fun family traditions, it's all up to you.

4. Flexibility in Lifestyle Choices

As the sole breadwinner of the family, that just means you get complete control over the family's finances and budget. While it can be stressful, it can be fulfilling too. There's no worry about clashing with your partner over how you want to spend your money. You can focus on a approach to saving that works best for you,.

5. Financial Control

As the adult in the family, it's now your responsibility to teach your children about, well, their responsibilities! It's an incredibly rewarding task for any parent. You get to teach them valuable life skills that can help them grow into strong, hardworking, and dependable individuals.

6. Teaching Responsibility to Children

You can always count on your friends and family to be there for you when you need them most! And for many single parents, this has never been more true. Many single parents are able to build really strong support networks that can provide them with all the support they need. After all, your friends and family will know how difficult things can get for you.

7. Building a Support Network

Without having to deal with another adult in the family, the family dynamic just got a whole lot easier. No more bickering, fights, or dealing with clashing schedules. At the end of the day, you might feel that things are a lot more harmonious and peaceful at home.

8. Simplified Family Dynamics

Now that you don't have a relationship to focus on, you just have time to focus on your own goals and dreams! Single parents may find it easier to pursue their aspirations simply because they have more time to prioritize themselves.

9. Focus on Personal Goals

Seeing you work so hard to provide and care for them, children of single parents often grow to become even more empathetic and compassionate. They appreciate all your efforts! It just makes them grow into understanding and kind individuals.

10. Teaching Empathy and Compassion

While you do get complete financial control over the family, it's not to say that things are going to be easy. For certain single parents, earning enough money to support the family can be really tough. Relying on a single income to cover everyone's expenses won't be easy, and it can lead to a lot of stress.

1. Financial Strain

Especially if you're dealing with younger children who need constant care, having to manage all the parenting, household responsibilities, and personal tasks can become very overwhelming. Trying to balance everything might just lead to burnout or exhaustion.

2. Limited Time and Energy

While you'll always have your kids to be with you, it can be tough for single parents who want to enjoy their free time. Without having a partner to share experiences with, some might grow to feel lonely or isolated from others. Social interactions might just be too hard for a single parent that's busy with caring for the family.

3. Social Isolation

Society always seems to struggle with accepting situations that are outside of the norm. So sadly, many single parents still face judgment from others, and it can feel very pressuring at times. It can affect their self-esteem and confidence, especially if people give negative comments.

4. Stigma and Judgment

Parenting isn't easy! And there's never a one-fits-all kind of manual that can teach everyone everything. During those moments of struggle when you don't know what to do, single parents might wish they had partner to back them up or support them. Difficult decisions are sometimes easier when you have someone to talk to after all.

5. Limited Parenting Support

It's also important that people never underestimate how taxing and difficult being a single parent can be. Having to deal with constant demands, growing responsibilities, all while trying to take care of yourself can be immensely stressful.

6. Emotional Stress

With bills to pay, mouths to feed, and a full time job to maintain, can you imagine throwing in dealing with relationships, dating, or friendships too? Sometimes, there's just not enough energy or time to have to manage all of that.

7. Challenges in Personal Relationships

While a single parent's life might be affected socially, sadly, that might be true for the child as well. Sometimes, children of single parents face challenges within their own social lives. They might feel different from others, be made fun of, or compare themselves with others.

8. Impact on Children's Social Life

Being a single parent might mean making sacrifices just so you can be more available for your children. You might have to work fewer hours to fit the schedules of your kids, miss out on work trips, or even turn down promotions that would make you too busy.

9. Career Limitations

And truly, it really depends on every situation. For some single parents, finding that much needed "me time" might be more difficult than you think. With your focus being on your children and keeping everything in order, it can be hard to find the right time for you to relax and enjoy your own hobbies.

10. Lack of Personal Time

More for you.

(Sion Touhig/Getty Images)

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Home — Essay Samples — Life — Single Parenting — Growing Up in a Single Parent Family

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Growing Up in a Single Parent Family

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Words: 583 |

Published: Mar 1, 2019

Words: 583 | Page: 1 | 3 min read

Works Cited:

  • Bauer, P. T. (1978). The proper scope of government: Theory and an application to prisons. The Journal of Law and Economics, 21(1), 1-36.
  • Friedman, M. (1962). Capitalism and Freedom. University of Chicago Press.
  • Hayek, F. A. (1944). The Road to Serfdom. University of Chicago Press.
  • Krugman, P. (2007). The conscience of a liberal. WW Norton & Company.
  • Mankiw, N. G. (2002). Principles of Economics. South-Western College Pub.
  • Mill, J. S. (1848). Principles of Political Economy. University of Toronto Press.
  • Rothbard, M. N. (2006). For a new liberty: The libertarian manifesto. Ludwig von Mises Institute.
  • Samuelson, P. A. (1948). Economics: An introductory analysis. McGraw-Hill.
  • Stiglitz, J. E. (2002). Globalization and its discontents. WW Norton & Company.
  • Smith, A. (1776). An inquiry into the nature and causes of the wealth of nations. Bantam Classics.

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single parent home essay

Watch CBS News

NFL legend Warrick Dunn's housing program changes lives of single parents

By Dana Jacobson , Analisa Novak

Updated on: May 23, 2024 / 12:19 PM EDT / CBS News

Warrick Dunn, a Florida State University standout who broke school records and played 12 seasons in the NFL, will be inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame later this year. But his most important legacy may be his Homes for the Holidays program for single-parent families, inspired by his own life experiences.

In 1993, Dunn's mother,  Betty Smothers , died while moonlighting as a security guard, a job she took on in addition to her duties as a Baton Rouge, Louisiana, police officer.

Just 18 years old at the time, Dunn was left to raise his five siblings.

"It all fell on me," Dunn said. "And I just felt like I need to make sure we have a place that we can actually call home. We moved, what ... three, four times living in Baton Rouge, and we were renting."

So Dunn used his mother's life insurance payout to buy his siblings their first home.

"I didn't have a place that I can actually say, hey, this is where we develop all of our memories as kids growing up," he said.

His personal experiences led Dunn to establish Homes for the Holidays during his inaugural season with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The program has helped hundreds of single parents across 16 states make down payments on their first homes and also furnishes the homes and stocks the pantries.

Trista, a single mother who received help from Dunn's program just before Thanksgiving 2002, said receiving a home was the happiest time of her life.

But the happiness of a free home came with an unexpected cost when the neighborhood turned dangerous after the housing market crashed. Trista rode it out and used the equity in that first home to buy the house where she lives today.

Reflecting on his journey, Dunn said there is still so much more to do for the program.

"It takes a little bit to build that generational wealth, but this is where you start," he said.

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Dana Jacobson is a co-host of "CBS Saturday Morning."

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29 Things Literally Every Single Millennial Had In Their Parents' House Growing Up In The '90s

Somewhere, there are dusty seashell decorative handsoaps that have been in the same bowl in the same spot in a guest bathroom since the first Clinton administration.

Brian Galindo

BuzzFeed Staff

1. Jars of spices that were clearly from the '80s or possibly '70s:

A lineup of nine Spice Islands spice jars, including Caraway Seed, Ground Cumin Seed, Dill Weed, Ground Ginger, Italian Herb Seasoning, Orange Peel, Red Pepper, Thyme, and Thyme

2. The Better Homes and Gardens New Cook Book , which stood out from the other cookbooks in the kitchen because of its red gingham cover:

Cover of "Better Homes and Gardens New Cook Book" with a red checkered pattern background

3. The colorful plastic sword cocktail picks, which you'd end up grabbing a few of from the kitchen so you could play with them:

Seven plastic cocktail swords are laid out side by side in a row against a black background

4. "Fat Italian chef" kitchen decor, like, cookie jars:

A ceramic cookie jar in the shape of a rotund chef wearing a tall hat, red scarf, and black-and-white checkered pants, holding a small item in one hand

5. And decorative plates:

Plates with illustrations of chefs holding various items such as a wine bottle, bread, and a dish, displayed against a dark background

6. Vinyl Disney placemats that would eventually, sadly, start fading from so much use:

Beauty and the Beast, The Lion King, and The Little Mermaid-themed placemats featuring Belle, the Beast, Simba, Nala, and Ariel in various scenes from their movies

7. The baskets with the built-in cloth linings that were a pain to clean if you used them as a breadbasket:

Four woven baskets with handles, each lined with different patterned cloth inserts, displayed on a table

8. Magnetic star and moon sculptures that were seriously entertaining to play with...well, at for 10 minutes, anyhow:

A black base holds a magnetic pile of metal stars and moons appearing to float and balance in various positions

9. And the Newtons Cradle, which would get tangled if you pulled the balls back too far:

Newton's cradle with six metal spheres on a black base, used to demonstrate conservation of momentum and energy

10. Yankee Candles, which could overwhelm the room with its scent by just lifting the jar off it:

Yankee Candle "Lilac Blossoms" scented candle in a glass jar. Lid is on top. The label shows lilac flowers and reads "Lilac Blossoms, housewarmer."

11. The stacks of newspapers that lived in the garage or laundry room and were either waiting to be recycled or reused for something in the house:

A close-up of a stack of folded newspapers, possibly indicating a collection of recent or significant headlines. No text visible

12. Decorative tins that either were used for display or used in cabinets to help store little knick-knacks:

Rectangular decorative tin box with a nostalgic market scene on its sides showcasing a storefront, pumpkins, and corn stalks. No text or people are depicted

13. Campell's Kids mugs that weren't just great for soup, but also for hot cocoa with marshmallows:

Four white mugs featuring retro Campbell's Soup ads with illustrated children enjoying soup, showing phrases "M'm! M'm! Good!"

14. Chunky serving plates that were handpainted (sometimes by a friend or loved one) and looked like a 8-year-old did it:

Heart-shaped ceramic plate with four quadrants, each with distinct patterns: green hearts on blue, red checkered, wavy green lines on pink, and yellow dots on purple

15. The Beatles Anthology double-disc CDs, which everyone's parents owned at least one volume of:

CD case with a collage of photos and text featuring The Beatles, titled "The Savage Young Beatles."

16. Wall-mounted telephones in the kitchen that usually had an extra-long coiled handset cord so whoever was talking on it could walk anywhere in the kitchen and beyond:

A hand holds a ConairPhone corded telephone with its receiver detached from the base, showing the number pad and buttons

17. This halogen desk lamp that gave off some seriously noticeable heat, and, also, that you knew better than to even touch the light bulb:

A sleek, modern black desk lamp with an adjustable arm and circular base

18. Dried flowers, which were usually hung in kitchen or TV room:

Bouquet of dried flowers hanging upside down against a plain wall with a light shining from the right

19. The large entertainment center that was the focal point of the living room or TV room and housed all your family's media:

single parent home essay

20. This Tupperware pitcher that always smelled like lemonade (even when it was clean) and gave every drink your family made in it a slight plasticky flavor:

A clear plastic pitcher with a lid, placed on a table in front of a wooden fence

21. These metal trays that were either filled with peppermints or were used to catch keys:

A rectangular metal tray with a decorative design featuring spirals and zigzag patterns around a large central spiral

22. Picture frames that were also photo albums (usually featuring photos of just one wedding or a particular family member):

A silver and gold picture frame with an empty black interior, standing upright against a neutral background

23. Avon Skin-So-Soft bath oil, which you put on because it was supposed to repel mosquitos:

Bottle of Avon Skin-So-Soft bath oil, 16 FL OZ, shown against a wooden and metal background

24. Suave strawberry shampoo, which made the entire bathroom smell like strawberries after you used it:

Suave strawberry shampoo bottle, 15 fl oz, with a graphic of a strawberry

25. Decorative seashell handsoaps in the guest bathroom that you weren't allowed to use and were covered in a layer of dust:

Three shell-shaped, perfumed guest soaps on a white tray with their packaging visible in the background

26. And bath products gift sets in a basket that was still wrapped in plastic it came in and was also used for decoration in the guest bathroom:

Gift basket with Sarah Michaels body products including a bath sponge, soap, and bath gel

27. A copy of Chicken Soup for the Soul on the bookshelf:

Book cover for "Chicken Soup for the Soul: 101 Stories to Open the Heart and Rekindle the Spirit" by Jack Canfield and Mark Victor Hansen, a #1 New York Times Bestseller

28. Vinyl bean bag chairs, which would get really flat after a few months of sitting on it:

Red leather bean bag chair in a relaxed and slightly wrinkled position, typical of 1990s home decor

29. And lastly, a sepia, Old West-themed photo your family or your parents took at a theme park:

Three individuals in period Western attire are posing; two men with mustaches wearing wide-brimmed hats and gun belts, and a woman with curly hair in a dress and feathered hat

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Elektrostal

Elektrostal Localisation : Country Russia , Oblast Moscow Oblast . Available Information : Geographical coordinates , Population, Area, Altitude, Weather and Hotel . Nearby cities and villages : Noginsk , Pavlovsky Posad and Staraya Kupavna .

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  1. Being Raised By A Single Parent

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COMMENTS

  1. Being A Single Parent: [Essay Example], 517 words GradesFixer

    They learn to adapt to changing circumstances, develop strong problem-solving skills, and become self-sufficient. Single parents often become role models for their children, teaching them the value of hard work, perseverance, and independence. 5. Support Networks. Support networks play a crucial role in the lives of single parents.

  2. Single parenting and today's family

    The single parent may feel overwhelmed by the responsibilities of juggling caring for the children, maintaining a job, and keeping up with the bills and household chores. And typically, the family's finances and resources are drastically reduced following the parents' breakup. Single parent families deal with many other pressures and ...

  3. My Mom is a Single Parent: Personal Experience

    My mom is a single parent, and her journey has taught me valuable lessons about strength, determination, and the unbreakable bond that exists between a parent and a child. This essay explores the unique challenges and triumphs of being raised by a single parent, the impact it has on family dynamics, and the powerful role my mom plays in shaping ...

  4. Why single-parent homes affect children differently

    Why single-parent homes don't affect Black children as negatively as white kids. Social policy and popular culture promote the two-parent nuclear family as an ideal structure for raising successful, healthy children. But the reality of family life in America looks very different from that: Half of all children spend time living with a single ...

  5. Single Parent

    14 essay samples found. A single parent is an individual who has most of the day-to-day responsibilities in the raising of the child or children, which would categorize them as the dominant caregiver. Essays could discuss the challenges and rewards of single parenting, societal attitudes towards single parents, and the impact of single ...

  6. Children's Development With Single Parent: [Essay Example], 1037 words

    Conclusion. A single-parent family might not be the ideal environment in which to bring up children, but if that single-parent family provides cheerful stability and appropriate modelling, and is one in which love and acceptance are positively displayed, then it is a far better environment for young children than a two-parent family where bitterness and hostility are constantly present.

  7. Single Parenting: Impact on Child's Development

    Parenting is a process and a state of being a parent. It includes nourishing, protecting, and guiding a child through development. 1 Traditionally, parenting included dichotomous gender-linked roles, with the mother being involved in nurturing and providing emotional support to the child, whereas the father was involved in providing protection and disciplining the child. 2 With the attaining ...

  8. (PDF) Academic Achievement of Children in Single Parent Homes: A

    In 2 000, 27% of all U.S. chil-. dren were living in single parent families; among African American children, 53% were liv-. ing with only one parent (Sigle Rushton & McLanaha n, 2004). The vast ...

  9. How Does Society View Single Parents? Research Paper

    Find the challenges and causes of single parenting in the essay. ... Risman, Barbara, and Park, Kyung. "Just The Two of Us: Parent-Child Relationships in Single-Parent Homes". Journal of Marriage and the Family. 1988, 50, 4, Nov, 1049. Sacks, George. "Boys without fathers is not a logical new idea." Arkansas Democrat-Gazette. Little ...

  10. Single Parent Essays: Examples, Topics, & Outlines

    View our collection of single parent essays. Find inspiration for topics, titles, outlines, & craft impactful single parent papers. Read our single parent papers today! Homework Help; ... whereas the proportion of children living in single-parent homes nearly doubled (United States Department of Justice, 2011). Since the 1970's nearly a third ...

  11. The Single-Parent Family

    The vast majority of the children of single parents flourish at home and in later life. In a national survey of substance abuse among more than 22,000 adolescents from different kinds of ...

  12. Single Parenting: Growing Up In A Single Parent Family [Free Essay

    It is a lot of pressure for one parent to make all the decisions, it is indeed emotionally exhausting. It is a single parent responsibility to meet his/her children emotional needs, as well as, their personal needs. Some children who live with single parents, exhibited disruptive behaviour and anger tantrums at school.

  13. What I Learned From Growing Up With A Single Parent

    Shutterstock. The negative side of growing up with a single parent is feeling a sense of neglect at times. The positive side of that same issue, though, is that you learn independence at a very young age. Since your parent is often away from home and working, you have to grow up a little bit faster than your peers.

  14. Single Parent Homes Essay

    1298 Words. 6 Pages. 3 Works Cited. Open Document. Single Parent Homes A single parent is one who is living without a spouse and/or partner. This individual takes on all of the daily responsibilities that comes with raising a child (ren). Furthermore, consider the single parent the one who provides solely for the child as they are the ones with ...

  15. The Struggles of Being a Single Parent

    In conclusion, being a single parent is one of the toughest things a parent can go through with their children. Having the opportunity to come together and be a family together is the main thing that matters. Unlucky situations of being a single parent that must be bothered with social, financial, and behavioral is a hard one to handle.

  16. 20 Scholarships for Students from Single-Parent Households

    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.

  17. Single Parent Homes Essay Examples

    Single Parent Homes Essays. Single Parent Homes as a Social Problem. The two-parent nuclear family is portrayed as the ideal family unit for bringing up successful, healthy children in social policy and popular culture (Burgess, 1970). The reality of family life, however, is extremely different from that in the majority of countries throughout ...

  18. Essay on Single Parenting: Two Parents Or One?

    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 ...

  19. Raising Kids in Single-Parent Households

    Re " The Rise of Single-Parent Families Is Bad for Kids ," by Melissa S. Kearney (Opinion guest essay, Sept. 20): Ms. Kearney does little more than moralize, concluding that single parenthood ...

  20. The Pros & Cons Of Being A Single Parent

    8. Impact on Children's Social Life. While a single parent's life might be affected socially, sadly, that might be true for the child as well. Sometimes, children of single parents face challenges ...

  21. Growing Up in a Single Parent Family: [Essay Example], 583 words

    For many years, children growing up in a single parent family have been observed as divergent. Being raised up by only one parent seems incredible to many, yet over the years it has become more usual. Today many children have grown up to become emotionally steady and successful whether they had one or two parents to show them the ups and downs ...

  22. Cutwork designs Commune co-living for single-parent families

    Commune offers co-living for single parents The concept puts a new spin on co-living, a type of housing that typically offers residents smaller homes but instead gives them access to a range of ...

  23. NFL legend Warrick Dunn's housing program changes lives of single parents

    Trista, a single mother who received help from Dunn's program just before Thanksgiving 2002, said receiving a home was the happiest time of her life. But the happiness of a free home came with an ...

  24. 29 Things All Parents Had In Their House In The '90s

    10. Yankee Candles, which could overwhelm the room with its scent by just lifting the jar off it: 11. The stacks of newspapers that lived in the garage or laundry room and were either waiting to ...

  25. Elektrostal Map

    Elektrostal is a city in Moscow Oblast, Russia, located 58 kilometers east of Moscow. Elektrostal has about 158,000 residents. Mapcarta, the open map.

  26. Home Theater & Automation Installers in Elektrostal'

    Home Automation & Home Media. 1 - 15 of 223 professionals. Tele-Art. 5.0 35 Reviews. Компания Tele-Art создаёт зеркальные дизайнерские телевизоры по индивидуальным проектам, домашние и персональные к... Read more. Send Message. Душинская ул ...

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  28. Elektrostal, Moscow Oblast, Russia

    Elektrostal Geography. Geographic Information regarding City of Elektrostal. Elektrostal Geographical coordinates. Latitude: 55.8, Longitude: 38.45. 55° 48′ 0″ North, 38° 27′ 0″ East. Elektrostal Area. 4,951 hectares. 49.51 km² (19.12 sq mi) Elektrostal Altitude.

  29. Elmo wants to know how you're feeling this Mental Health ...

    Then, for Mental Health Awareness Month, Sesame Workshop released new emotional well-being resources for parents and kids. Elmo and Sesame Workshop's Kama Einhorn join us. Connect with us: Find ...