The Working Struggles of Caregiving Parents
In Arlington, where opportunity and affluence often define our community, there exists a quieter, more complex reality for many single parents—especially those raising children with disabilities. These parents are not only caregivers. They are also advocates, educators, and full-time case managers. And, for many, the demands of caregiving come at the cost of their own careers.
A Hidden Workforce Crisis
Nationally, nearly 1 in 5 children has a disability, and a significant portion of these children are raised in single-parent households. For these parents, traditional employment is often out of reach. A 2023 Fortune article revealed that many mothers of children with disabilities are forced to leave the workforce entirely or accept lower-paying, flexible jobs that accommodate their caregiving responsibilities. On average, single parents of disabled children earn $18,000 less per year than their peers.
In Arlington, the story is no different. Sonia, a client of Arlington Thrive, exemplifies this struggle. After her son was diagnosed with a developmental disability, Sonia had to give up her full-time job to manage his care. Despite her experience and work ethic, the lack of flexible, supportive employment options left her financially vulnerable and emotionally drained.
Barriers Beyond the Home
The challenges these parents face are not just logistical—they are systemic. According to research from Single Parent Rights, single parents often encounter:
- Workplace discrimination and stigma;
- Lack of affordable, specialized childcare;
- Rigid work schedules incompatible with therapy appointments and school meetings; and
- Limited access to job training or re-entry programs tailored to their needs.
Insights from National Research
A 2020 report by the Institute for Women’s Policy Research (IWPR) further underscores the employment challenges faced by mothers of children with disabilities:
- Mothers of children with disabilities are less likely to be employed full-time year-round compared to mothers of children without disabilities.
- They are more likely to work part-time or experience interruptions in employment due to caregiving responsibilities.
- The employment gap contributes to a significant income disparity, with many mothers of children with disabilities living near or below the poverty line.
- Access to paid leave, flexible work arrangements, and supportive services are critical to improving employment outcomes for these families.
The Cost of Caregiving
The emotional toll is matched by a financial one. A study published in Family Relations found that single mothers of children with developmental disabilities are significantly more likely to live in poverty, even when employed. The cost of therapies, adaptive equipment, and lost income can be overwhelming.
And yet, these parents persist. They navigate bureaucracies, advocate for their children, and find creative ways to make ends meet. But they shouldn’t have to do it alone.
How Arlington Thrive Is Responding
Through our Community Navigator and Employment Pathways programs, Arlington Thrive is working to bridge the gap. We connect parents like Sonia with:
- Personalized employment coaching;
- Access to flexible job training;
- Support navigating disability services; and
- Emergency financial assistance during transitions.
What You Can Do
- Share this story to raise awareness.
- Support our programs through donations or volunteering.
- Advocate for inclusive employment policies in your workplace or community.
Every parent deserves the chance to thrive—not just survive.
