Explaining Visitation Schedules
Kids find comfort in concrete, visual reminders that let them know what to expect.
1. Print a few weeks’ worth of pages at a time, so you can use this every week. Add dates to the calendar (children can help).
2. Together, talk through the plan for the coming week (for instance, “Let’s mark the days you’ll be with Mommy this week.”). Choose a consistent way to represent this (such as a certain color or shape to mark “Mommy days”). Highlighters can be fun!
3. Add things kids have to look forward to each week (such as movie night, a play date, or a trip to the playground). Help children display the calendar so that they can see it often. Kids may also like crossing out each day to keep track of time.
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.
Adjusting to Blended Families
These pointers can help you guide a child through a new family dynamic.
Taking Care of Yourself
A few ideas to help grown-ups take care of themselves during a divorce, too.
Dealing With Divorce
An overview of strategies adults can use to help kids understand divorce and adjust to the changes it brings.
