After a divorce, we tend to concentrate more on the single mother than the single father. This could be due to more mothers gaining full custody or at least becoming the primary home for the children.
Even though the single mother role is very important and tends to come to the forefront, the single father relationship and role holds its own importance.
Some single fathers tend to define themselves as just a part-time parent that provides financial support. This can be difficult because the non-custodial parent simply doesn't get the kids as often. However, men have to realize there is nobody that can replace them and their role as a single father is very important.
Part of cultivating a healthy relationship between a single father and the children is the language used to describe the divorce. Women have to be very careful how they talk about him, especially if he is a very good dad to the children. Saying things, such as "he left us" can leave a negative imprint on the child's mind. Instead, make it clear that he left you and not the children.
It's clear that children need a father and if he's willing to be involved in their life, it's important to allow this relationship to continue to develop. Anytime a single father has the opportunity to spend time with his children, he should.
Divorce is certainly hard on everybody, but parents have to bend and compromise for the children. Both single moms and single dads are very important for the development of the children and they must work together for the sake of the kids.
Make sure you allow the other parent to cultivate a good relationship with their children. It can be hard to see them happy with somebody you no longer want to be with, but it's important for the kids to have a good relationship with both parents and not just the single mother.