Here you can find a wide range of resources we think you may find helpful, covering all age ranges. If you think you know of something we could add, do let us know!
Websites
Voices in the Middle
A website created by children who have been through their parents’ divorcing. It has a strong campaign message which creates a sense of community and removes stigma. It also includes resources for parents as chosen by children.
Books
(Before buying, do ask us – we have copies we can lend to families!)
Miss Dirt the Dustman’s Daughter
by Allan Ahlberg (recommended ages 3 – 5)
A light-hearted book showing a child living equally between the homes of two parents, including new partners and a disparity in financial circumstances.
The Great Big Book of Families
by Mary Asquith Hoffman (recommended ages 3 – 6)
A long book which beautifully illustrates (with lots of pictures) the various configurations that families can take. It includes differences in activities, holidays and pets.
Rita’s Rhino
by Tony Ross (recommended ages 4 – 7)
A book ostensibly about a child and a rhino, however it uses humour to explain how the child and the rhino can love each other but need to live apart. A good story for families in which the child will only see one parent during school holidays – Rita and the rhino have an annual holiday by the sea together.
The Suitcase Kid
by Jacqueline Wilson (recommended ages 10 – 14)
This book focuses on a 10-year-old’s experience of her parents’ divorce. Both parents have new partners with children and the book explores the way in which families can be blended. The central character spends one week at her mum’s house and the next week with her dad. She really struggles with the change and wants everything to go back to how it was before.
The Illustrated Mum
by Jacqueline Wilson (recommended ages 10 – 14)
A hard-hitting story of a single mother who struggles with her mental health. It includes siblings who live together but have different fathers and explores the way children can feel about different father-figures.
The Divorce Journal for Kids
by Sue Atkins (recommended ages 7 – 12)
An interactive book written by Parenting Expert, Sue Atkins. It provides age-appropriate explanations of divorce, the ending of adult relationships & the legal side. It includes exercises to promote good self-esteem & healthy ways to process feelings. It is an invaluable tool to help children feel heard & seen during this time.
For Parents
Our Family Wizard
An app to aid coparenting communication. Helps with messages and calendars.
Gingerbread
A charity providing support to single parents. Useful FAQs and guidance.
