Disadvantaged children got money off their school trips when I was at school. Me and my sister were classed as disadvantaged children. Why? Because we came from a single parent family.
I always remember my mum standing in the kitchen reading a letter from school about a trip to some place or the other. “Disadvantaged!” she scoffed. “Ridiculous”. At the time I had no idea what she was on about, but as I grew older I realised what she meant.
It’s unfair that back then (and probably these days too) children of single parent families were (and are) thought to be disadvantaged. What makes them disadvantaged? Can one parent not bring their child up in an acceptable way? Can a single parent not provide for their family? Are these children simply dragged up through their childhood? Is the lack of a father/mother figure damaging to their health or mental well being?
There are many, many single parents all over the world who bring up their children amazingly well. These children are not disadvantaged – they have a wonderful parent who is providing them with everything they need. Love, stability, support.
Being a single parent does not mean you cannot support your child or provide them with enough care and affection.
Yes, being a single parent can be hard work – but if you are a decent, reasonable person with morals, then your child/children will have the advantage of having a supportive, caring parent who only wants what is best for them.
Thoughts, things and stuff 