Finding Support in Others’ Stories
Let a child coping with a divorce know that many other people have had similar experiences.
Watch the video together, then remind children that lots of kids have divorced parents. Ask, “What is a family? What makes a family a family?” You might start by asking, “Who is in Chase’s family?” If children only name Chase’s mother and father, point out that Chase also has his aunt, uncle, and cousins. Families are groups of people who take care of and support one another. Families don’t always live together, but they’re still families.
When you notice blended families, divorced parents, stepparents, or single-parent families in books, television shows, and movies, point that out to remind kids that there are lots of different types of homes and families.
A Monster-Fairy Problem
A video about the challenges and joys of a blended Muppet family.
Adjusting to Two Homes
Use this video to show children that many other kids have two homes.
Co-parenting Conversations
Simple conversation starters to develop your parenting partnership.
Tell Me About It
Asking children questions and listening to their answers lets you know what’s on their minds.
Taking Care of Yourself
A few ideas to help grown-ups take care of themselves during a divorce, too.
Adjusting to Blended Families
These pointers can help you guide a child through a new family dynamic.
Dealing With Divorce
An overview of strategies adults can use to help kids understand divorce and adjust to the changes it brings.
