While we mums are used to criticism for our parenting choices at times (grr!) it seems that the same goes for dads too.
Aussie Michael Ray is single dad (and sole carer) to his daughter Charlie – and he says he has found himself at the end of much judgement on how he parents her.
In fact, it ticks him off so much, on Kidspot has shared seven things he is sick to death of being asked, giving us some fascinating insight into life as a single dad:
1. Are you babysitting today/Is Daddy in charge today?
“No I’m actually parenting!” he says. Too right, WE say.
2. Do you want to call your wife and check?
“This comes across as a little rude,” says Michael. “It’s usually said in the chemist or a hairdresser’s when I’m trying to decide which product to purchase for my girl.”
3. Who does her hair and nails?
“Me,” he asserts. “It’s not that hard especially with all of the YouTube tutorials. She chooses a style and we watch tutorials together learning different braids. I’m pretty sure there are even male hairdressers, yet the fact that a father has managed to get Charlie’s hair done or nails painted is something impressive?” Good point Michael!
4. How do you manage?
His answer is simple: “The same as every other single parent, I have a fantastic family and amazing friends to help out whenever I need them.”
5. Every little girl needs her mum!
“Really?” says Michael. “I couldn’t imagine saying ‘every little boy needs his dad’ to a single mum who’s doing her best to be everything for her child.”
6. You’ll need help when she gets to puberty!
“Again I couldn’t imagine saying that to a single mum with a son!” he says. “I’m more than sure if I can manage to read, and have the same wonderful relationship with Charlie we can both help each other through any mutual embarrassment.” We love this response!
7. I bet you would’ve loved a son?
Rude! “Formerly a boxer, currently a personal trainer and multiple Australian powerlifting record holder I think the inference is I’m qualified to mentor a little boy than my princess?” he says.
The lesson here? Whether we’re a mum or dad we’re ALL doing our best to give our children love, support and care. So as the Aussies say, next time anyone feels like making a judgemental comment, ‘leave it out!’
You can read Michael's entire post on Kidspot here.
