parent (n.)

three recommendations: (1) use "fathers and mothers" or "mothers and fathers" rather than the inclusive "parents," in order to make both sexes visible, and because two parents aren't always the same sex. (2) Do not assume "parent" translates to "mother"; mail on infant care is addressed "Dear Mother" and an ad for an adhesive tape makes "diapering so easy, even Dad can do it." While the reality is that more women than men are active parents, it is also a reality that many more men than before are becoming involved in parenting and should be given the name as well as the game. A step in the right direction: some stores now have diaper-changing counters in both the men's and the women's restrooms. (3) When working with children, do not assume that the child lives with both parents; many children live with only one parent, with a parent and stepparent, with a guardian, with grandparents, in a foster home, or with two parents of the same sex. Teacher David Salmela asks his elementary-school pupils to take notes home to "the adults" at their house. See also babysitter, mother and father.