mother (v.)

to 'father' a child suggests above all to beget, to provide the sperm which fertilizes the ovum. To 'mother' a child implies a continuing presence, lasting at least nine months, more often for years (Adrienne Rich, Of Woman Born). When you need inclusive sex-neutral alternatives for the verb "mother," consider parent, nurture, support, protect, take care of, look after, care for, be responsible for, rear children, caretake, supervise. See also father (v).