How does Atticus' response that he tries to "do the best he can with them!" characterize the atypical structure of the finch household?

Atticus works full time and is both mother and father to his children. His remark may seem to be defensive, but he's simply stating a fact. Atticus knows that his children (like all children) need a woman's influence, and his children have some of the best. Miss. Maudie and Calpurnia cannot be Scout and Jem's mother...... but they do provide motherly love and guidance.