Best Books for Children Dealing With Divorce

The process of a divorce is not only difficult transition for parents, but also for the children involved. As a result of the changing family dynamic, children are often filled with an abundance of emotions which they have a hard time communicating. Getting a child to open up and 'talk' can be a challenge. Often upon asking a child in the middle of a divorce, if they want to talk, only causes them to clam up more. Older children are sometimes 'embarrassed' by the situation, and will not even open up to their friends about it. This can lead to depression, and can feel like very lonely time. One way to get the communication going is through reading.

Feelings generally are hard for kids verbalize. When it comes to divorce, one of the best ways to get them to open up is through reading. Discussing the book with the child can help you gain a better understanding of what they are feeling. This is an excellent way of stimulating conversation. You may ask, "How do you feel when you know that you will be living in two different houses? Rather than, "Are you sad that mommy and daddy are not together anymore? Whereas in the latter question, you are insinuating that the child should feel sad.

I have compiled a list of books which are geared toward children being affected by divorce.

Best books on divorce for the younger ages:

"Dinosaurs Divorce" by Marc Brown
Ages 4-8

"It's Not Your Fault, Koko Bear: A Read-Together Book for Parents and Young Children During Divorce" by Vicki Lansky
Ages 3-7

"Two Homes" by Claire Masurel
Ages 2-5

"I Don't Want to Talk About It" by Jeanie Franz Ransom
Ages 4-8

"Mama and Daddy Bear's Divorce" by Cornelia Maude Spelman
Ages 4-8

"My Family's Changing" by Pat Thomas
Ages 4-8

Best books on divorce for the older children and preteens:

"Its Not The End Of The World" by Judy Bloom
Ages 9-12

"The Boys And Girls Book About Divorce" by Richard Gardner
Ages 9-12

"Divorce Is Not the End of the World : Zoe's And Evan's Coping Guide for Kids"
by Zoe Stern and Even Stern
Ages 9-12

"My Parents Are Divorced Too: A Book For Kids By Kids"
by Melanie Ford
Ages 9-12

"What In The World Do You Do When Your Parents Divorce?: A Survival Guide For Kids" by Kent Winchester
Ages 9-12

By reading, children will be able to relate to the characters in the books. This will give the parent an opportunity to start an otherwise awkward conversation. The transition of divorce is a difficult time for kids, and by allowing them to express their feelings openly, you are giving them a way to cope. The ability to cope and being able to deal with emotions is a lifelong asset. Keep communication open during this time, if you see your child beginning to withdraw, use the resources available to you. Encourage your child to talk with you. This is not always easy with older children. Many times counseling is necessary. Check with your child's school as well as local social services for a reference for a good family counselor. And keep talking!