Kids Zone Help Children Through Parents' Divorce
The Children’s Society, along with leading family law firm Mischon De Reya, has launched an online guide to help children of all ages cope with the separation of their parents.
The Kids Zone area of The Children’s Society’s website http://www.childrenssociety.org.uk features advice, a letter for children to give to their parents and a series of short films sharing personal accounts from children whose parents have divorced.
A ‘Frequently Asked Questions’ page answers questions such as ‘what happens in court?’ and ‘what if parents are splitting up but they are not married?’
The guide features four short videos of children talking openly about their experiences of divorce. One of them focuses on 8 year old Anna, who talks about her feelings when her parents split up: “After mum and dad told us they were breaking up, my sister and I were sad and afraid. I felt like it was my fault, even though mum said it wasn’t”.
The website lends a virtual helping hand to those who are experiencing the changes that separation can often bring. It aims to answer some of the questions that children may want to ask but for a variety of reasons may feel unable to.
Bob Reitemeier, Chief Executive at The Children’s Society said: “The special resources we have developed with Mischon de Reya on Kids Zone tackle many of the issues that children face during the break up of their parents’ relationship.
“It can be very traumatic for a child and we hope these resources will offer some guidance and support whilst encouraging children to speak to their parents or someone close to them about how they are feeling.
“Divorce can be frightening and confusing for children but research has shown that many of the problems experienced do dissipate over time. We hope online guide will be of some help for children in difficult times.”
Sandra Davis, head of family law at Mishcon de Reya, said: “We, as a law firm, have recognised how child related issues are frequently thrust into the court system without the need to be.
“At Mishcon de Reya we are currently campaigning to change the current system but until that happens we are delighted to be working with The Children’s Society to help guide and support children caught up in the separation of their parents.”
Kids Zone also covers many other issues that affect children, including support for young carers, those experiencing bullying and problems at home.
The Children’s Society Good Childhood Inquiry found that 70% of children agreed that ‘parents getting on well’ was one of the most important factors in raising happy children.
When asked if parents who argue should stay together 47% said no, 33% said yes and 20% said that they didn’t know (The Good Childhood Evidence Summary 2009).
These varied responses demonstrate that divorce can affect children very differently and the online guide aims to make the experience of divorce clearer for those children going through it.
Tagged in Parenting