Being a single parent can be difficult without adequate support, but for single fathers it can mean a whole different set of challenges.
Michael Ray, father of four-year-old Charlie, finds that going out in public with his daughter can be hard when strangers – often women – feel the need to make comments about his parenting.
R
ay told kidspot:
“Women are mostly supportive but some say patronising things.
The majority of women I encounter are wonderful and so supportive and complementary but while I’m aware that our family situation is slightly different from the norm it shouldn’t be seen as anything different to a single mum.”
There are five questions in particular, which Ray often has to deal with:
1. How do you manage?
Like every other parent.
2. Are you baby-sitting today/is daddy in charge today?
No, still parenting.
3. Do you want to call your wife and check?
It’s usually said in the chemist or a hairdresser’s when I’m trying to decide which product to purchase for my girl. I can probably read the label, thanks.
4. Who does her hair and nails?
Still parenting. Plus YouTube tutorials.
5. I bet you would have loved a son?
Formerly a boxer, currently a personal trainer and multiple Australian power-lifting record holder… I think the inference is I’m more qualified to mentor a little boy than my princess?