Parenting is traditionally perceived as a shared responsibility. But if raising kids sounds challenging enough with two people in the picture, just imagine what it’s like for those who carry that load by themselves.

For single parents, every expectation, every responsibility, and every obstacle is always magnified. And for their children, living in a society where having two parents is the norm is an altogether different experience.

Vantage now explores the two sides of this family set-up, with stories from three solo parents and their children’s experiences of the highs and lows of life as part of a single-parent family.

Yayo and Adam: A sacrifice for the better

Richie and Chayee: What makes a superdad?

Joie and Julianne: Joy amidst challenges

Photos by Ralph Lim and Gabriel Medina

Graphics by Andrea Granda