1. Bibliotherapy: Children and Divorce Based on Children at Risk(2001) by Barry Friedman, McGraw Hill

2. Resources on the web American Bar Association http://www.abanet.org Center for Divorce Education: http://www.divorce-education.com

3. Children and Divorce Feelings Separation as part of divorce is confusing(life apart before the legal divorce decree) Anger Sadness Anxiety Abandonment Out of control/ world turned upside down Overly burdened with responsibility for jobs of absent parent Adolescents: Deal with lifestyle changes as a byproduct of divorce Troubling to them - in the midst of forming love relationships with peers

4. Implications for Teachers: Children may want their teachers to know about their family situation Children may want their teachers to know about pressures- more tolerant about school performance Children may hope that the teacher can be a listener and helper Tip Offs that there is a problem : Abrupt changes in children's /Separation anxiety, disruptive behavior More difficult for adolescents to come right out and share situation. Might hint:"I left my book at my dad's house.” Awareness can help to be better prepared to monitor situation and respond appropriately

5. Teachers as listener: Tell me about it How does that make you feel? What did that make you think about? That must have been difficult for you. How do you feel right now? Empathetic responses: It is hard, isn't it? That must have mad you feel… Could I give you a hug now ? Opportunities to Express Feelings Young children through play and puppetry, dress up, art, music, movement Primary teachers might make materials available during breaks, recess, lunch Older children through art and writing Prompts: If I could change anything, I would...I would like to tell my Dad...I wish my mother...Sometimes I wish...

6. Teacher Limits Can't always be there Can help transition if child moves- permission to talk to new teacher Can provide important for clear consistent limits- feel of security Can provide time for play away from parental problems Helping Parents Communicate with both parents Avoid getting caught in the middle, stay neutral Advocate for the child