15 Reasons Having A Baby Out Of Wedlock Isn't The End Of The World

Vanessa Simmons was worried about telling Rev Run about her unplanned surprise, but all he did when he heard the news was get excited.

With 14 million single parents in the US, the stigma surrounding solo parenthood is officially old school. Besides, their are some great things that come out of single-parent households. Read on to find out 15 reasons why being a single parent can be pretty great — or at least not the end of the world should you find yourself in this situation.

You Build Stronger Networks

Single moms need help. And their kids count themselves lucky to grow up around friends and family who love them enough to lend a hand. That means a wider support group for lil’ bit and more meaningful friendships for mama.

You Pick the Parenting Style

It’s mama’s way or the highway. In a single parent home, there are no mixed messages or arguments over parenting methods. Kids thrive on consistency and a single message can mean more grounded kids who are better at going along with the rules.

Parenting Vacations

Single moms get to drop those kids with their daddy and wave goodbye in the rearview mirror. It’s hard to get the same kind of in-house free time in a two parent home.

A Closer Bond

From “Sadie” to “Dear Mama,” the world is full of anthems for single moms. There’s just no bond like the one between a child and the parent that sacrificed everything for them. And that kind of love is something that they’ll cherish for the rest of their lives.

No Fighting

When mom and dad don’t get together after the baby, there’s usually a good reason. And it’s usually best for the kids. Kids who grow up in single parent homes without the drama may potentially have less emotional trouble and more success in long term relationships.

More Independent Kids

You didn’t need a man to make a life. Your kids will grow up knowing that they don’t need a partner to make them feel complete. Thanks to that independence, they’ll grow up focusing on a happy life, and if the right partner happens along, it’s a bonus — not a requirement.

No Divorce

Shot gun weddings have a habit of ending in divorce. Parents who decide not to get married could be saving their kids from the trauma of going through a messy divorce.

You Get to Congratulate Yourself

When you do double the parenting, you get double the congratulations when they succeed. When she’s a surgeon, you’ll be able to tell the world that you did that just for her.

Growing Little Helpers

Kids in single parent households do more helping out. They tend to find out what they’re capable of sooner and grow up with a stronger sense of responsibility. Plus, knowing that they’re an important part of what makes the family work make them feel included.

More Confidence

Being a single mom is rough. But when you find out you can handle that obstacle, you realize that you’re capable of more than you thought. And that confidence goes a long way. The world is full of single moms who went on to greater things because they discovered what they could do when they put their mind to it.

Getting Great at Problem Solving

“If you want something done, ask a busy person to do it” goes the old adage. Single moms are great at finding creative solutions to tough problems. Outside of the house, that can mean more money, more free time and better job performance.

A Career Boost

Single moms have to make more bank. That means putting in the effort to take their career to a level that they otherwise might not have.

Well-Rounded Kids

Kids of single parents spend time between grandparents, friends, relatives and day care. Hanging out with lots of different people early on in life gives kids confidence to be independent and broader life experience.

Better Dating Behavior

When you have a child, your dating criteria gets much more specific. It may take longer to meet a man worthy of your family, but when you do it’s destined to last longer.