School is almost out; for many kids, that means stocking up on their favorite books from a local library or bookstore. Highly sought after titles about young wizards, lovelorn vampires or wimpy kids are at the top of most summer reading lists. Yet for children of divorce, books can be a great way to start the conversation about this life-changing and sometimes difficult process. Online retailers like Amazon.com as well as libraries and bookstores are filled with titles that speak to kids directly about divorce.
Two Homes by Claire Masurel is a top-selling book for young children between the ages of two and five. The book, published in 2003 and illustrated by Kady MacDonald Denton, takes a unique approach to divorce. The toddler narrator of the story, Alex, is the child of divorce. The twist? He seems pretty happy. After all, Alex gets to have more of everything he loves in his life. Two sets of toys, two sets of parents who care for him and two sets of friends are some of the benefits to Alex's life. Young children will love the bright illustrations and clever text while parents will find the positive message of the story refreshing.
For the preschool and first grade set, Standing on My Own Two Feet: A Child's Affirmation of Love in the Midst of Divorce is an excellent choice. Written by Tamara Schmitz, the book introduces us to Addison, a child of divorce. Addison knows that while things are different now, his parents love him and that will never change. The heartfelt message of this book brings great comfort to kids.
Lastly, for girls 8 years old and up, Help! A Girl's Guide to Divorce and Stepfamilies is a surprisingly thorough and honest look at divorce. As part of the American Girl Library, the book tells young girls everything they need to know about divorce, from what certain terms mean to how custody works. It also includes quizzes and advice from real girls who've been caught in the middle of divorce.
Of course, grownups have hundreds of books to choose from, as well. But more often than not, they need someone to talk to and someone with solutions. For real advice concerning the Pasadena divorce process, call us today.