Divorce is an incredibly difficult life experience that affects many families. For children, it can be a confusing and unsettling time – but one way to make the process easier for them is through reading books about divorce and separation. This helps not just in understanding what’s happening now, but also preparing for their future in this new circumstance.
By exploring the themes through the eyes of other children in age appropriate books they can better understand their circumstances and emotions, and feel reassured that they are not alone, it’s not that fault and that change can be for the better.
Here is a list of books that we have used when working with clients and their children:
Books for children aged 0 – 3 years old
1. Pretend Your Heart by Belinda Boyson
This title is helpful for those with young children who may be just starting to become aware of separation and the emotions that come with this.
2. The Invisible String (2+ years)
Recommended by multiple parenting blogs, social service agencies and educators, this book offers an alternative explanation that can be given to children during a time of separation or loss.
Books for children aged 3 – 7 years old
1. My Big Fantastic Family by Adam & Charlotte Guillain (3-7 years)
Written in rhyme, this book offers an uplifting perspective on the aftermath of separation and explores themes of blended families.
2. Two Places to Hall Home by Phil Earle (3-7 years)
This is a picture book which frames the story of separation through fantasy and is particularly useful for those who respond best to visual learning.
3. Mum and Dad Glue (3-5 years)
This picture book sheds an optimistic light upon separation and divorce and the effect that this can have on young children.
Books for older children (recommended 8+ years)
1. The List of Things that Will Not Change by Rebecca Stead (8-12 years)
This book discusses divorce, blended families and is written in the voice of a young girl going through the process of adjustment.
2. Candy Floss by Jacqueline Wilson (9-14 years)
This book explores the effects of relocation after a divorce, with the main protagonist having to make a choice between moving to a different country and what this may mean for her relationship with both parents.
3. The Suitcase Kid by Jacqueline Wilson (9-14 years)
This deals with themes of blended families and making the adjustment to having two homes.
4. Split Survival Kit by Ruth Fitzgerald and Dr Angharad Rudkin (10+ years)
Written in collaboration with a child psychologist, this book offers practical tips to young children in dealing with different situations which arise from parental separation or divorce.
5. Goggle Eyes by Anne Fine
This book is helpful for those looking for content relating to new partners and step-parents.