Resources That Help 9 to 12-Year Olds
For Better, For Worse
For Better, For Worse: A guide to surviving divorce for preteens and their families
by Janet Bode and Stan Mack, 2001

Divided into two parts: the first for kids, the second for parents. The book offers quotes and practical tips from children who have lived through their parents' divorce. (MCPL)*

Mom's House, Dad's House for Kids
Mom's House, Dad's House for Kids
by Isolina Ricci, 2006

This book empowers children with practical ways to gain understanding through the family transitions. Its message: Believe in yourself and use times of change to get stronger and learn important life skills. (MCPL)*

It's Not the End of the World
It's Not the End of the World
by Judy Blume, 2001

This is the story of how Karen and her siblings react to their parents' separation. Karen is concerned about how the family will manage financially and who will take care of them. She also tries to get her parents to reconcile. (MCPL)*

Let's Talk about Separation and Divorce Game
Let's Talk about Separation and Divorce Game
by Lawrence E. Shapiro

A non-competitive card game designed to get kids and parents talking about their feelings, fears, and hopes for the future.

A Smart Girl's Guide to her Parents' Divorce
A Smart Girl's Guide to her Parents' Divorce
by Nancy Holyoke, 2009

This American Girl book provides practical advice on how to deal with family changes, negative emotions, new living arrangements, and many other challenges. (MCPL)*

What Happens Next?
What Happens Next? Information for kids about separation and divorce
by the Department of Justice, Government of Canada, 2007

This free book is available online at www.justice.gc.ca or by calling 1-888-373-2222. Topics: changing family life, normal feelings of divorce, and a long-distance parent.

Dear Mr. Henshaw
Dear Mr. Henshaw
by Beverly Cleary, 1983

The story is about Leigh Botts and his loneliness at school, his troubles with an unknown schoolmate who secretly steals his lunch, and most of all shows his sadness about his parents' divorce and his father's absence. (MCPL)*

* MCPL indicates that the item is at the Mid-Continent Public Library.

You can find these resources at your local library, bookstore, www.activeparenting.com, or www.amazon.com

Counseling and Support

Catholic Charities(816) 333-2040
Healthy Families(816) 468-6336
Synergy Services(816) 587-4100
The Family Conservancy(913) 342-1110
Tri-County(816) 468-0400

For more information, contact the 7th Judicial Circuit Family Court Services at 816-736-8400.