APPRECIATING MOTHERS

"There are approximately 112,000 single mothers in Denmark. Single-mother families comprise 29% of households, while singlefather families only constitute 16% of households."

in poor physical condition. These health issues make it hard for a child to focus, for s/he is struggling with the fundamentals of life.

And in homes where a child lives in a dysfunctional environment, a child cannot look after herself, a child cannot focus, yet again, on the usual things. Sadly, the roles are swapped, and the child becomes the carer and the 'adult'. In these situations, evidence indicates that children are far more likely to drop out of school, struggle to form stable relationships, and tend to act out. A child can not learn unless she/ he is in a safe emotional space.

The Other Side Of The Coin

The picture painted so far is the gloomiest depiction. And it is often this perspective that hits the headlines. However, there are many examples of positive single-parent families. There are a few key factors which help make the difference.

Statistics show that mothers with a high school and/or college education are keen to provide their children with a solid academic pathway. They recognise that schooling is essential and that the additional investment in after-school activities, reading at home, and providing other learning opportunities significantly increase a child's learning potential.

Often mothers with further education can secure well-paid employment, which, in turn, provides a more stable home and lifestyle which allows a child to flourish emotionally, socially, and academically.

Nevertheless, it is not money alone that can nurture a child; it is the possibilities that can be accessed and manipulated by an engaged, proactive mother. The driving force is the mother and the relationship she develops with her child. Creating time and prioritising it to establish routines supports a child's evolvement, curiosity, and readiness for school.

Mothers who enjoy a strong, supportive family and friend network can utilise these resources to enhance their child's development. Each family member and friend can enrich a child's life and introduce them to exciting experiences as well as the security of a loving environment, which underpins a child's emotional and social well-being. As a result, the family broadens a child's social interactions and experiences.

The family is also a vital support structure for the mother. Many women comment on the lack of time for themselves. This is a serious consideration, as personal well-being is crucial. A failure to create this space, as tricky as it might be, can lead to severe consequences such as anxiety, fatigue, and depression. Research indicates that the percentage of young women with mental health problems is much higher than that of their male counterparts.

A child raised by a single mother enjoys a close, steadfast connection. There is strong loyalty, and a dual engagement in dealing with and resolving issues, which fosters a more independent and self-advocating child. As a result, a child's maturity level can be more advanced than a nuclear family's.

Single parenting is a complex topic, but overall evidence indicates that a child is not disadvantaged; thus, an applause for all single mothers is needed! THE-INTL

Monika Pedersen International Educator

Monika comes from the London area of the UK, where she worked in the state system and the international school system, as an English teacher of 11-18 students and then a section leader. She has also worked in Germany and now in Denmark. She has an overview of the British, International, and American educational systems and is currently learning about the Danish system. She has been in education for 32 years and continues to enjoy the profession. She has relocated to Copenhagen as she is married to a Dane. She enjoys jogging, waterside walks, and cooking.

@monikapedersen

@monikapedersen

@monikapedersen