[accymel]

True point Rindy yes 2 parent families have lach key kiddies too but least to some degree between the 2 something can be worked out, especially as most families may need to rely on a 2 wage - harder still doing it all alone on 1 wage. The other main point is the school holidays & regular erregularity of them incl inset days, which is so hard work to fit around a 9-5 hrs+ per day shift. Childminder flaws, ie during holiday time & if u should not need a week for a minder that u still have to pay regardless of whether that child is there or not to secure the placement when back at work. Another flaw is when child is off school/nursery sick so u have to take time off & lose wages, & needing a child flexible boss that is understanding of that. These are considerations for 2 parent families but least can support each other, as a lone parent hasnt got that.

Biggest great debate point is the 'career choice' within the young some not all mind u as u watch Jezza as much as me u will know that severe lack of responsiblity plays a part, 2nd to that my bugbear of select people claming the so called lone parentage but really arn't to abuse the state - that pees me off more than owt, as i found out with one course at least a third weren't technically in the lone parent bracket or did a short term to get on the new deal advantage. Unfortunately as with anything within the state system of benefits those that abuse it tars those that dont!!

Seems like that it hasn't gone a huge long way of acceptance, yes siblings were shared among the family [another thing thats changed is external family support & help which most dont have now], my grandfather was a lone parent of 8 that some had to go to a relation, but he worked, i come from good stock & respect him for that, seems with the lack of respect & with kids these days, parents are put into impossible positions.