Skip to content

Ever tried raising kids? Single Parents’ Day celebrates those brave, stoical people that do it on their own, and in many cases without a safety net!

Most single parents didn’t intend to be single parents when they started. Single parenthood usually comes about due to unfortunate and stressful events. Raising children even with two parents can be hard work, so take a moment to applaud those people who are having to fly solo.

So if you’re the child of a single parent, use this day to show them how much you appreciate all their hard work!

How to Celebrate Single Parents’ Day

Even on the days you feel like you are failing, look around. Your child’s smile will bring you right back up.

Show Support to a Single Parent

The best thing that you can do on Single Parents’ Day is to show your support to single parents and let them know that you appreciate them.

Whether this is your co-worker, neighbor, friend, or family member, tell them that you’re proud of everything that they do and that you’re there if they need you.

A gesture like this can go a very long way, especially when someone feels like they have had a morning from hell trying to get their child to go to school!

Give a Single Parent a Break

If you are able to, you could offer to help out on Single Parents’ Day so that someone you know is able to enjoy a break from their never-ending to-do list on this date.

This does not necessarily mean that you should offer to babysit on this day, although you can definitely do so! There are plenty of other ways you can help single parents, including running their errands for them or cooking them a nice meal so they don’t have to cook for themselves on this day.

Remember Some People with Single Parents

Some famous children of single parents include Julia Roberts, Bradley Wiggins and Adele, so it’s clearly possible for single parents to raise very talented, high-achieving people.

Barack Obama, Oprah Winfrey and Leonardo DiCaprio also fall on this list! Despite this, there is often still a stigma attached to single-parent families. National Single Parent Day is just the time to overcome this!

Celebrate Yourself!

If you are a single parent, make sure you celebrate yourself on this date! After all, you deserve it! Don’t be afraid to ask a loved one to babysit so that you can enjoy some precious pamper time.

Of course, you may decide that the best way to spend this day is by enjoying time with your child. Why not catch a movie together or go out for a bite to eat?

No matter what you do, just remember that we are all thinking about you and that we appreciate and admire everything you do!

Learn About Single Parents’ Day

Being a single parent is twice the work, twice the stress and twice the tears but also twice the hugs, twice the love and twice the pride.

Single Parents’ Day has been created so that we can all pay tribute to the fathers and mothers out there that are raising children on their own. It is their sacrifices, devotion, and hard work that holds down the fort and keeps things going!

There is no denying that raising children can be a challenge. This is only made more difficult when you don’t have a partner to help you out. There are many reasons why people end up raising their children on their own, so we should never judge.

This could be because the other parent simply has not stepped up or it could be because they have passed away. No matter the situation, it is hard for one person to take on the role of mom and dad, but they make it work, and they should be applauded for that.

Most people would agree that single parents are like real-life superheroes. Between doctor visits, daycare, school, work, and everything else in between, it’s amazing to think that single parents are able to find enough hours in the day to do everything they need to do!

A lot of single parents are lucky enough to have support from their families. On this date, we should also think about the siblings, grandparents, and other family members that help out.

Unfortunately for some, they don’t have any help available to them at all, and so the burden falls entirely on their shoulders. If you know someone who is a single parent, it is always nice to reach out and see how they are doing. Offer a helping hand if you are able to.

History of Single Parents’ Day

Single Parents’ Day has quite a long history. It can be traced back to the 1980s, when Janice Moglen wrote an article with the aim of creating a Single Parent Day, hoping that it would gain the sort of recognition that both Father’s and Mother’s Day do.

Janice was determined in her mission and she collaborated with an organization called Parents Without Partners. Together, they started petitioning to have Single Parents’ Day declared by states across the United States.

The date that was chosen is significant as well. It coincides with the origins of Parents Without Partners, which was first established on the 21st of March in 1957.

Janice, and single parents all over the United States, were delighted when President Ronald Reagan signed Proclamation 5166, which declared the 21st of March, 1984, as Single Parents’ Day. Since then, this date has been embraced across the United States, as well as many other countries around the world.

National Single Parent Day FAQs

How did the concept of Single Parents’ Day originate?

In 1984, Janice Moglen proposed a day to honor single parents. She collaborated with Parents Without Partners to petition for its recognition.

President Ronald Reagan signed Proclamation 5166, establishing March 21 as National Single Parent Day.

Are there any notable figures raised by single parents?

Yes, several prominent individuals were raised by single parents. For instance, singer Adele and actress Julia Roberts grew up in single-parent households.

How do different cultures celebrate single parents?

While Single Parents’ Day is recognized in the U.S. and U.K., other cultures honor parents collectively.

For example, South Korea celebrates Parents’ Day on May 8, where children give carnations to their parents.

What are some common misconceptions about single-parent families?

A common misconception is that children from single-parent families are less successful. However, many thrive and achieve great success, debunking this myth.

How has the perception of single-parent families evolved over time?

Historically, single-parent families faced stigma. Over time, societal views have shifted, recognizing the strength and capabilities of single parents.

Are there any unique traditions associated with Single Parents’ Day?

While not widespread, some communities host events or provide support services to honor single parents on this day. These activities aim to celebrate their contributions and offer assistance.

How do single-parent households impact children’s development?

Research indicates that children in single-parent households can develop resilience and independence. The quality of parenting and support systems play crucial roles in their development.

What challenges do single parents commonly face?

Single parents often juggle multiple roles, facing challenges like financial strain, time management, and societal judgments. Support networks and community resources can alleviate some of these pressures.

How can communities support single parents?

Communities can offer support through childcare services, financial assistance, and creating inclusive environments.

Recognizing and valuing the contributions of single parents fosters a supportive atmosphere.

Are there any notable organizations dedicated to supporting single parents?

Yes, organizations like Gingerbread in the UK provide resources, advocacy, and support for single-parent families. They offer guidance on various challenges single parents may face.

See what else is happening…

There’s always more going on every month at Days Of The Year. Here are our favorites this month!

Also on ...

View all holidays

National French Bread Day

Crusty, chewy, and delicious, this iconic loaf is the perfect vessel for everything from melted cheese to tangy spreads. Bon appétit!

National Crunchy Taco Day

There’s nothing quite like a delicious crunchy taco to provide super-satisfying flavor for lunch or dinner.

World Poetry Day

With words as paint and emotions as the canvas, verses come alive, painting stories of heart and soul, in a symphony of expression.

View all holidays

Calendar

Join the community!

Password requirements

  • At least one capital letter
  • At least one lowercase letter
  • At least one number
  • 8 or more characters

Welcome back!

Log in to get personalized recommendations, follow events and topics you love, and never miss a day again!