Young single mother’s experience of child care in Ayuu Alali Parish, Lamwo District

Abstract

Early motherhood significantly impacts adolescent girls, their families, schools, and society. Transitioning to motherhood requires physical, psychological, social, and cognitive preparedness, which teenage mothers often lack. This study assesses child care practices among young single mothers, the challenges they face in caring for their children, and the coping strategies they employ to overcome these challenges. The study adopted a phenomenological design using a qualitative approach to analyse the experiences of child care by teenage single mothers. Conducted in Ayuu Alali Parish, Lamwo district, the study included young single mothers aged 15-21 years who were currently not married and residing in Ayuu Alali Parish. A sample of 10 study participants was selected. Data were collected using in-depth and key informant interview guides. The study revealed that single young mothers engaged in essential child care practices such as feeding (breastfeeding), bathing, clothing, seeking medical care, nurturing, and child play. However, they faced significant challenges, including financial constraints that prevented them from providing balanced diets and societal discomfort that hindered public breastfeeding. Access to healthcare services was impeded by long distances to health facilities, poor road infrastructure, and lack of transport. Teenage mothers lacked knowledge about preventive health measures and heavily relied on family support to overcome childcare challenges. Young mothers experienced substantial difficulties in providing adequate child care due to socio-economic and infrastructural challenges. Despite these obstacles, they utilized various coping mechanisms, primarily relying on family support. Their experiences were marked by difficulty and regret. The study recommends increased government and NGO support tailored to young mothers, including education, vocational training, and economic empowerment programs. Additionally, Child Protection Officers and Probation and Social Welfare Officers should advocate for policy changes to address the specific needs of young mothers, including reforms in education policies to ensure access to continuing education or alternative educational opportunities.