Our First Talk About Separation and Divorce
Separation and divorce are difficult on the entire family.
Often young children blame themselves or are unsure of their place in the family if these events occur. Child psychologist Dr. Jillian Roberts designed the Just Enough series to empower parents/caregivers to start conversations with young ones about difficult or challenging subject matter.
Why Do Families Change? is part of the Just Enough series. Other topics in the series include birth, death and diversity.
February 15, 2017
A simple Q-and-A introduction to a difficult topic.The psychologist author starts by discussing relationships--animal and human, married and common-law--and the illustrator enhances the text with pictures of diverse couples from different cultures and sexual orientations. The questions in the illustrated text include: "What is separation?"; "What is divorce?"; "Is it ever the kid's fault?"; What should I expect if my parents are separating or getting a divorce?"; and "What can I do to feel better?" The digital illustrations show a range of situations and emotions, but some may soft-pedal individual kids' experiences. In demonstrating that both parents remain supportive, for instance, pictures depict two Asian parents side by side cheering a young baseball player on. This may well not happen in real life. On the last page, the author presents a few more-complex issues, including questions about custody, parents' getting back together, and blended families. While the whole book is meant to facilitate discussion between children and adults, these last few questions and answers, while still directed at child readers, may provide more information to adults. The answers throughout the book are realistic and appropriate. This could provide comfort to children going through serious periods in their young lives, but only if they are reinforced by thoughtful parents and other loving adults. A useful resource for a common issue. (Informational picture book. 4-7)
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March 1, 2017
PreS-Gr 1-Using upbeat, colorful illustrations and straightforward text, Roberts reassures kids that they are loved and that divorce or separation is not their fault. The author defines divorce and separation in terms that not only are easy for small children to understand but also lend themselves well to sparking discussions. Potentially scary concepts such as moving are made accessible: "If your parents are separating or getting a divorce, know that change is coming, which can make you feel sad, scared and even angry. These feelings are normal." Back matter addresses custody issues and blended families. VERDICT A helpful tool for adults seeking to explain divorce to elementary students. Consider for guidance counselor offices.-Robin Sofge, Prince William Public Library System, VA
Copyright 2017 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.
January 1, 2018
This levelheaded primer directed at young children doesn't know its audience: its prose is stiff and bloodless ("Is it ever the kids' fault? / No. If separation or divorce happens, it is never the fault of the children"). Injecting some warmth are hazy-edged illustrations of straight and gay parents with their kids. A dry Q and A closes the book.
(Copyright 2018 by The Horn Book, Incorporated, Boston. All rights reserved.)