Advice

Growing up with just one parent may not be the traditional way but there's nothing weird about it. Lots of kids live in single parent families. Get the facts here...

Not a 'normal' family?

There's no such thing. Thousands of children have two parents, one parent, no parents, two mums, two dads, or live with other relatives or in care. But if it worries you, research has shown that family structure and type isn't as important as having someone who cares about you ? whether that person's a biological parent or not.

From a single parent family?

Whether you've always only had one parent, your parents have divorced, they were never married or one of your parents has died, there's no evidence to suggest that children of lone parents do any worse in life than those with two. If having one parent is a recent thing and you're taking time getting used to it, take heart in the fact you're not alone: 23% of young people live with a single parent.

Growing up without any parents

If your parents have died or are unable to bring you up for whatever reason, you may feel isolated. Parents are our first point of reference as regards to who we are, but they are not everything. Your biological parents will always have an imprint on your looks and personality, but in the end, you are your own person. This is something that many people only discover when they're in their 20s. You will discover this sooner, and will be a stronger person for it. As long as you have someone who cares about you, you will be fine.