An adequate parent...

1. Put their child's needs before their own
2. Always makes sure the child knows s/he is loved
3. Is healthy/stable enough so that the child is not regularly affected by the parent's mental illness. The child does not have to worry or tiptoe around the parent or miss out on doing normal kid things because they know mom or dad is depressed, anxious, etc.
4. Attends the kids' special events like sports games, plays, spelling bees, etc.
5. Is able to make the child feels safe and secure in the parent's ability to protect and care for them.
6. Acts like the "adult" and lets the kid be the "kid"
7. Has the financial resources to support the kids
8. Has the ability to teach the kids basic emotional, social, and academic skills