Family Law

Talking With Children About Divorce - The Oprah Way

By Ben Stevens

The Oprah Winfrey Show recently featured M. Gary Neuman, founder and director of the Sandcastles Program and author of Helping Your Kids Cope with Divorce the Sandcastles Way, who discussed the best ways to help children cope with divorce.  According to Mr. Neuman, the cardinal rule that all divorcing parents need to follow is to never criticize each other in front of their children.

To help children get through this difficult time, he suggests that parents understand that sadness is normal and that it's actually good for the children to get it out.  He also recommends that parents talk with their children, and to do so lovingly and in a reassuring manner.  Mr. Neuman has developed a Letter Writing Exercise for Kids to help them express their feelings.  If you or someone you know is facing this situation, I highly recommend that you view the materials on Oprah's website by clicking here.

Full post as published by SC Family Law Blog on February 17, 2009 (boomark / email).