I’ve heard the infamous question asked of single moms raising sons. “What about a male role model?” Yes, male role models are an important part of a growing boys life, but not having one isn’t the end either. There are a lot of things that boys being raised by single moms can learn, even without a male role model. Just to name a few:
Sons of single moms learn to respect not only their mom, but all women. They live with a woman day in and day out who works hard, supports her family, raises her children, and does the job of two parents all by herself. They grow up knowing that women aren’t weak and/or useless, but strong, independent, and can do everything and anything they put their minds to.
“He is the most polite child I’ve ever met.” I have heard this multiple times from complete strangers, as well as family and friends. Single moms can teach their sons to be polite and take other peoples feelings into consideration. It could be things as simple as saying please, thank you, or God bless you, or more out of the ordinary such as asking if someone is ok after they have had a coughing fit.
Sons of single moms can learn that there is still magic in the world. Sometimes they have to look for it, and sometimes it needs to be helped along, but it is out there. Wishes can come true, but they are apt to come true more often if you share your wish with your mom, at least when they are younger. They also learn wishes can still come true through out their life. All it takes is a wish, a plan, and the persistence to see it through. They can do anything they put their minds to.
Beyond Gender-The Realities of Single Parenting