Single parent families

Single parent families are made up of one parent with one or more children. Most of the time the children live with one parent, but might still have contact with the other.

If you live with one parent, here are some tips for you:

• Communicate openly with your parent about your feelings and concerns
• Build a strong support network with friends, relatives, and your community
• Spend quality time with your parent, taking part in activities you both enjoy
• Talk to your parent about any money worries you may have.

Extended families

Extended families include more adults who are related by blood or marriage living nearby or within the same household.

Reconstituted, step-families or blended families

These families are made up of people from other families joining together to make one. It could be both partners with children, or one can marry a partner who comes with a child or children.

Normally both adults in this type of family will look after and be responsible for all the children in the family, not just their own children.

Here are some tips for this type of family: 

• Accept and respect all family members, including new siblings and stepparents
• Talk openly and honestly with your parents about your feelings and worries
• Give yourself time to adjust to changes and be patient with the new family arrangement
• Find common interests with your new siblings to build strong relationships
• Create new family routines and traditions that help everyone feel included and valued.

Multi-cultural families

If your parents come from different cultural backgrounds, here are some tips for you:

• Celebrate and learn about each other's cultures
• Participate in cultural events and traditions from both sides of your family
• Ask questions and be curious about your family's cultural background
• Teach your friends and classmates about your family's traditions
• Be positive about the diversity within your family and the new experiences it will bring.

Same sex families

Families with same-sex parents are built on love and care, just like any other family. Here's some guidance for you:

• Think positively about how unique your family is and be proud of your parents 
• Learn about different types of families to help others understand your family structure
• Share your experiences with friends and classmates to promote acceptance and understanding
• Be open to questions and don't hesitate to discuss your family with others
• Surround yourself with supportive friends and allies who respect your family.