Children's Books About Divorce by Age Group

Talking to your children about divorce isn't easy, especially when still processing your own feelings. Sometimes, using books designed to guide the conversation can be helpful, especially for very young children. Here is a list of children's books about divorce by age group. Click on the title of the book to find it on Amazon.

Books by Age Group

When using books to discuss sensitive topics like divorce with children, the books must be age-appropriate. Books tailored to a child's age and comprehension level offer a gentle, relatable way to introduce and explore the complex emotions and changes that come with divorce. For young children, picture books with simple language and relatable characters can help demystify the concept of divorce, making it more accessible and less intimidating. For older children, more detailed narratives can provide deeper insights and coping strategies. These books often address common worries and questions children may have, providing reassurance and understanding. In essence, choosing the right book serves as a bridge, facilitating open, empathetic conversations between parents and children during a challenging transition in their family life.

Books About Divorce for Ages 3-5

It's Not Your Fault Koko Bear

Koko is a preschool-aged bear whose parents are getting divorced. Koko is very upset. The book was written to be read by parents to their children and to help them talk about how they're feeling. It reassures children that their parents still love them regardless of the changes happening in their family.

Mama and Daddy Bear's Divorce

Dinah is scared. Mama and Daddy Bear are getting a divorce. Daddy is moving out, and she's not sure when she'll get to see him again. This sweet book doesn't go into details about divorce but helps acknowledge that there are big feelings involved for kids.

Two Homes

This book focuses on the positive aspects of having two homes. Alex talks about the differences between his two homes and what he loves about each. He makes it clear that he feels loved and that he belongs in both.

My Family's Changing

This book directly explains to children what a divorce is and normalizes any feelings they may have. It also asks questions to engage children in conversation about how they're feeling. It's a good book for any adult who is working with a child going through a divorce.

Fred Stays with Me!

I've noticed that it has become more and more common for the family dog to switch houses with the children. This story is told by a little girl who takes her dog with her from her mom's house to her dad's house and back, which gives her a sense of security and stability.

Books for Ages 6-8

I Don't Want to Talk About It

This is a story about a young girl whose parents are getting a divorce. She has a hard time talking about what she's thinking. Instead, she imagines that she is an animal that can better express how she's feeling. If you're reading this with your child, the animals can help facilitate a conversation with them about what they're feeling.

But...What About Me!

This book, complete with simple illustrations, helps families to see divorce, separation, and associated conflicts from a child's perspective. The emotions presented will help any young child better explain and deal with how they are feeling throughout the process.

Two Adventures with Mom and Dad: Explaining Divorce to Young Children

This book was written to help parents introduce the concept of divorce and separation to young children. It helps start a dialogue at home on what to expect during the divorce process. It also encourages families to talk about the positives of creating new adventures together.

Hope's Broken Snow Globe

This story is about Hope's first Christmas after her parents divorced. While she's helping her Dad decorate, she finds a broken snow globe. It reminds her of the shouting and yelling shortly after she broke the snow globe last year. Hope is convinced that she can bring her parents back together if she can repair the snow globe. In the end, she learns to accept her new family arrangement.

When My Parents Forgot How to Be Friends

It can be hard for young kids when their parents separate or divorce. This book helps to assure kids that they are not responsible for their parents' inability to be friends. Read this book aloud and allow for some family discussion time around the topics.

Books for Ages 9-11

A Smart Girl's Guide to Her Parents' Divorce

This book is written for girls to help them understand the changes they're experiencing and the emotions they're feeling. It talks about everything from how to live in two houses to what to do when parents start dating other people. It gives tips and has advice for real girls who have been there.

It's Not the End of the World

Karen is a sixth-grader whose parents are getting divorced. Her father moved out of the house but Karen is anxious to try and get them back together. While the book is fiction, Judy Blume does an excellent job of tapping into each character's emotions in a very realistic way.

Books About Divorce for Ages 12+

Kids' Divorce Workbook

This workbook includes drawing, matching, and coloring activities to help your older children improve their coping skills and confidence levels as they navigate their parents' divorce. Use in a one-to-one situation or in a group setting.

Mom's House, Dad's House for Kids

This book is written for kids to read either by themselves or with their parents. It helps kids to help themselves through the changes they are experiencing. It's filled with practical tips, checklists, and even words that one can use when finding it difficult to communicate.

Children need a lot of reassurance when experiencing their parents' separation. They need to know that both of their parents love them and that it's not the child's fault.

Providing age-appropriate books about divorce can be a compassionate way to help children understand and cope with their parents' divorce. These books offer a medium to explore emotions, ask questions, and find comfort during a challenging time. As parents, choosing the right book for your child's age and situation can be a powerful tool in helping them navigate the complexities of divorce with empathy and understanding.

At Intentional Divorce Solutions, we're committed to guiding individuals through the complexities of divorce with an approach centered on empowered choices and respectful outcomes. Our team provides comprehensive support and expertise in several key areas:

• Divorce Financial Planning and Analysis: Providing in-depth financial insights and strategies for a secure future post-divorce.
• Divorce Mediation: Facilitating respectful and balanced negotiations to reach mutually beneficial resolutions.
• Divorce Coaching: Offering personalized support and guidance to help you navigate through emotional and practical challenges of divorce.
• Divorce Support Groups: Creating a space for sharing experiences and finding strength in community support.

Please Note: We focus on providing support and solutions in various aspects of divorce. However, we are not attorneys and do not offer legal advice.

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If you are on the journey of divorce and seeking professional, empathetic support, we are here to assist you. Reach out to us to discover how our services can be adapted to your unique needs, empowering you to make informed decisions for respectful and positive outcomes.

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