Why Do Families Change?

A practical storybook guide written by a child psychologist to help parents address questions in light of a separation or divorce. Children often feel like they are to blame or play some role in the changing dynamics of their family. This highly-recommended book encourages dialogue with children about why families change and how they will fit into a new, healthier family unit.

 

 

 

 

Best Kids' Books about Divorce 

The heartache associated with a family divided is all the more difficult when children are involved. Most kids are emotionally complex beings who do not yet have the maturity to express their feelings. When parents make the decision that separation is necessary, it's important to think about all the ways their children can be supported through this process.  

A good starting point is to gather together some good children's books about divorce. Finding a one-size-fits-all  book is difficult, so it's better to collect a wide variety of titles. Look for some fictional stories that will resonate with your child, and then add some non-fictional guides to supplement their reading. You can scroll through this list to find the books that will help children of all ages cope with the challenges of a family splitting apart. Consider reading kids' books about stepfamilies to help children adjust to changing family dynamics, too.

 

  

Children's Books about Divorce for Kindergarten and Up

Sometimes kids aren't able or willing to talk about how they are feeling. Changes in behavior, performance at school, or interest in social activities may be a good indication that children are struggling.  The range and depth of emotions- loneliness, sadness, anger, guilt- can be debilitating and isolating. To help a child on his or her journey to heal, we have gathered together a list of the best books on divorce for kids. We have also included some children's books about separation for situations that are not finalized.

 

Dinosaurs Divorce

This book covers some of the most common questions that arise when children are dealing with parents who are divorcing. Using colorful illustrations and easy-to-understand text, even the youngest of readers will relate to the dinosaur family.  The wide range of topics addressed in this divorce book include living with just one parent, splitting holidays, adjusting to stepparents, talking to friends about divorce and a myriad of other issues. 

 

 

 

When My Parents Forgot How to Be Friends

This divorce book focuses on sensitivity of children who witness parents fighting. A young child is confused by her parents' inability to get along when they used to be a tight-knit family. The emphasis in this story is that both parents love the child unconditionally, and that will never change. The story assures children that they are not at fault for the divorce and helps to ease anxiety.

 

  

 My Family's Changing

The author of this book is a psychotherapist and counselor who has a lot of experience working with children and families experiencing divorce. A very helpful tool that appears throughout this book is a What About You sidebar. As the story addresses all of the worries, fears, and anxieties a child is facing, there is an opportunity to stop and engage in active, meaningful discussion with your child. Kids have a chance to assess their own response to the divorce alongside the experiences of the child in the book.

 

 

Two Homes

If you are looking for a reassuring picture book that provides an uplifting view on divorce, Two Homes may be just the one. A little boy named Alex has two special bedrooms each with their own unique furniture and personal touches. He has friends at each home to play with, and even  more importantly, he is loved equally in both places. 

 

 

 

Why Do Families Change?

A child psychologist penned this non-fiction book for children who have questions about what their life will be like after divorce. This book is an excellent catalyst for parents who don't know how to begin a conversation about separation and divorce with their children. Bright and engaging illustrations perfectly complement the questions that are covered in this honest and reassuring book.

 

 

 

Standing on My Own Two Feet

A gentle, reassuring book about a child named Addison who finds courage as his parents go through a divorce.  He understands that his parents love him just the same and that having two homes isn't so bad after all. Addison learns resilience and strength by standing on his own two feet.

 

 

 

I Don't Want to Talk About It

Like many young children, the little girl in this story does not want to talk about her parents' split. She has a wide range of emotions that she is not willing or able to discuss with her family. Instead, she prefers to roar like a lion and block out everything. Kids will relate to how she is feeling and may feel encouraged to open up after reading this book.

 

 

Here and There

Ivan's parents recently separated and he's having a hard time adjusting. Going back and forth between two homes is taking a toll on his spirit. As a boy who loves music, he eventually learns to find happiness singing and dancing at both places. 

 

 

 

The Invisible String

While this amazing book does not address the topic of divorce directly, it is highly recommended for children who are going through the trauma of families splitting apart.  The invisible string is a connection between children and their loved ones, even when they can't be together.  The string is made of love, and even though you can't see it, you can feel it in your heart always.

 

 

 

It's Not Your Fault, Koko Bear

A highly recommended book that serves as both a story for the child and a how-to guide for parents trying to navigate a difficult separation. Koko Bear doesn't want his home life to change and is not happy about having two different bedrooms. His parents offer him reassurance that their love for him hasn't changed and that the divorce has nothing to do with him. Helpful tips at the bottom of each page provide guidance for parents on answering hard questions and explaining the situation in gentle, comforting terms.

 

 

 

Was It the Chocolate Pudding?: A Story for Little Kids About Divorce

This is a lengthy picture boo geared toward more mature kids who are prepared to process lots of information. Childrens are provided plenty of reassurance that they are not at fault, and that the problem resides with the parents. Concepts like "single parent homes", "joint custody", and other divorce-related matters are covered.

 

Two Homes Filled with Love

Drew and his pet dragon provide emotional support for their friend whose parents are getting a divorce. A very gentle, comforting story that hits all the right notes by showing a child that he is loved as much as ever before. This cartoonish story also drives home the importance of leaning on your friends in times of distress.

  

 

Fred Stays With Me

It's incredibly important for children to experience stability and continuity in light of a divorce. In this divorce book for preschoolers, a little girl shuffles between her parents' homes, but her loyal companion is always by her side. Fred provides her with comfort during a tumultuous period in her life. 

 

 

 

Divorce is the Worst

A unique book about divorce that doesn't sugarcoat the situation and the emotional impact on the children involved. All feelings are validated and represented through visually interesting artwork that captures the wide range of emotions. It's a heartfelt work that does more showing than telling.

 

 

 

Monday, Wednesday, and Every Other Weekend

One of the most disruptive aspects of divorce for a child is the constant shuffling between two homes. A little boy moves back and forth from his mother's apartment to his father's house, but fortunately his loyal dog is by his side at all times. This book  does not paint a rosy picture of the situation, but rather is a more raw account of the tug-of-war a child can feel when adjusting to this disruption.

 

 

 

Always Mom, Forever Dad

A wonderfully reassuring book for kids whose parents are separating or divorcing. No matter what is happening between mom and dad, they will always love their child unconditionally. Living in two separate homes can be difficult and lead to feelings of instability. This heartwarming book provides reassurance for children that, despite all of the other changes, the one constant is their parents' love for them.

 

 

 

Living with Mom and Living with Dad

An upbeat, lift-the-flap book that provides reassurance for children who will be splitting time between two homes. In this story, the child has two different bedrooms that look a little different, however, she brings her favorite toys with her wherever shes goes. And most importantly, both her mom and her dad love her unconditionally. This is the constant that provides comfort and security. A gentle, easy-to-understand divorce book perfect for preschoolers.

 

 

 

 

 

What Can I Do? A Book for Children of Divorce

It is not uncommon for children to think that a divorce is somehow their fault. Many kids also hope they can change the outcome by altering their own behavior. In this story, Rosie does her very best to be the perfect daughter. She cleans the house, gets good grades, and even empties her piggy bank to help with household expenses. But not matter how cheerful and helpful, Rosie is unable to prevent her parents from separating. When she joins a support group at school, the other kids who also come from divided homes help Rosie understand that it is not her fault.  

 

 

We're Having a Tuesday

 One of the biggest adjustments for young children of divorce is the transition between homes. In this story, a little girl struggles with the constant back-and-forth. When she is at her mother's house, she misses her father, and vice versa. There are certain things that she misses, like her pet or her bike, that she can't always take with her. However, she always carries her special backpack no matter where she goes. This gentle story, with soft watercolor illustrations, captures the emotional turmoil of a child who splits her time with her mother and father. There are some helpful blank pages at the end where kids are encouraged to write down their own feelings.

 

 

 

The D Word

Otis had no idea that his parents were not getting along. In fact, he considered life at home to be nearly perfect. All of that changed one day when his parents sat him down to talk. They told him they were getting a D (a word so difficult that Otis refuses to say it out loud). Fortunately, he has a grandmother who helps him understand why. He also learns the three Cs: He didn't Cause it. He can't Control it. He has to Cope with it. This book provides lots of helpful guidance for kids learning how to adjust to their new normal. 

 

A Different Part of the Forest: A Gentle Tale of Divorce

 The use of young saplings symbolizing the children of parents who live separately is a gentle way to address this difficult subject. Curently living among a family of trees, the sapling babies learn that they will be loved no matter where they reside in the forest, even if it requires moving somewhere else. Although initially anxious, the young trees grow to understand they will be loved, nurtured, and supported no matter how their family changes.

 

You Make Your Parents Super Happy!: A Book About Parents Separating

This story about separation is geared toward preschool and kindergarten children. Using an upbeat tone, accessible text explains the reasons why parents are separating. Little ones are reassured that no matter what happens, both parents will continues to love them just the same. Using cartoonish stick figures, the author/illustrator adds a bit of humor to a difficult topic.

 

Mum and Dad Glue

A little boy is determined to find a way to fix his broken parents. After putting some thought into a solution, he thinks that maybe glue will stick his family together again. He is also hopeful that he can glue smiles back on their faces so they can be happy once again. While the boy learns the hard way that a sticky substance is not the remedy, he comes to understand that his parents will always love him despite their divorce. Rhyming verse and whimsical illustrations add an upbeat tone to this difficult topic.

A Kids Book About Divorce

This fantastic book will open up a conversation between parents and children about divorce. There are prompts on one page followed by a few simple, easy-to-understand responses and explanations. The questions and answers provided do not sugarcoat or dance around the topic. The author has designed this guide to encourage real, raw discussions which will ultimately help in the healing process.

 

I Have Two Homes

A tender book about divorce based on the perspective of a little girl, Nina. She explains in a very matter-of-fact way that her house became too small for both of her parents to live there. So one day her mother rides off on a bicycle with all of her belongings and moves into a new home. Both houses are portrayed as vibrant, happy places for Nina to share with each of her parents. A highly relatable, accessible story for youngsters adapting to two homes.

 

 

A Tale of Two Seders

A realistic look at a little girl's experience splitting Jewish holidays at her mother's and her father's house. The very Passover her parents are divorced, she compares the seder at each home and feels sad that everyone can't be together. As the years progress, the girl grows to accept and enjoy the different circumstances at each home. Although the food is a little bit different and the company around the table changes, she appreciates all the new traditions.

 

 

Lou Carribou: Weekdays With Mom, Weekends With Dad

Lou Caribou is a darling little reindeer who is loved tremendously by both his mom and dad. Since his parents live at opposite sides of the forest, Lou takes a fun bus ride to travel between their homes. He has a routine that involves packing a suitcase with his favorite things to take on visits with his dad. He spends weekends with his father riding bikes and swimming. And then when it's time to go back to his mom's house, he boards the bus and returns to her loving embrace.

 

 

Good Answers to Tough Questions: Divorce

 This comprehensive book covers a wide range of questions and answers to some really difficult situations. Many scenarios take place in the classroom where kids share their own experiences. There is a tremendous amount of information to help kids navigate their parents' divorce. Most important of all, readers will understand that they are not at fault. 

 

Like Cats and Dogs

 A poetic story about Rosalie, a girl who is stuck between divorced parents who are constantly fighting. She learns how to cope with moving between two homes.  And, most importantly, understands that both her mom and dad love her no matter how much discord is between them. Intriguing artwork portrays the struggle of a child caught in the middle. 

  

 

 

 Divorce Workbooks for Kids of All Ages

Parents who divorce usually worry about how their children will cope. When the family unit is broken up, the kids are faced with complicated emotions they are not always mature enough to handle. Young children may not have the words to express their feelings. Older kids may shut down and refuse to talk about how they are doing with the situation.

A particularly helpful way to get through is the use of divorce guides expressly written for children. Instead of forcing a difficult conversation, provide them with a variety of divorce workbooks for kids that they can use independently.  Children can work through these guides, written by child psychologists and family therapists, at their own pace and without the pressure of having to talk about their feelings. 

 

Getting Through My Parents' Divorce

An incredibly helpful guide, written by two experts who specialize in child psychology, is useful for kids stuck in the middle of a tough divorce. The book tackles difficult topics, like custody battles, lying, and undermining, and provides guidance for kids to navigate these incredibly complicated dynamics. This workbook offers exercises for kids to complete which will help them process their emotions and cope with their family circumstances.

 

 

A Smart Girl's Guide to Her Parents' Divorce

An extremely helpful guide for girls nine years and up who are coping with the separation of their parents. Written like a divorce advice column, this book features an expert who responds to a wide variety of questions from girls related to separation, divorce, re-marriage and other related topics. There is a section full of quizzes and tips from real girls who have experienced this same difficult life event.

 

 

 

The Divorce Journal for Kids

 This is a very comprehensive journal for kids ages seven and older. There are over one hundred pages of activities to help kids deal with their emotions, learn how to communicate, and express all of their feelings. In addition to guided prompts, the author provides words of comfort and advice for kids. Lots of blank pages are also included for children to record their personal thoughts.  Creative and engaging, this journal will help kids find the strength to cope with a life-altering event. 

 

 

 

Kids' Divorce Workbook

Kids will benefit from working through the various activities in this comprehensive divorce workbook. The written exercises begin with questions about what makes kids happy. Little ones are asked to draw pictures of things they enjoy doing. There are many other interactive worksheets that focus on building the self-esteem and confidence of a child. It's not until later that the guide delves into the topic of divorce. Children then engage in activies centered around  their parents' separation and life at home. Overall, a very effective and reassuring guide for kids to work through independently or with a trusted adult.

 

 

When Mom and Dad Separate: Children Can Learn to Cope with Grief from Divorce

This is a workbook that helps kids confront all of the tough questions they have about their parents' divorce. It can be used to supplement therapy or can stand alone as a journal to help kids heal on their own. There are ample opportunities to write down thoughts, draw pictures, and express feelings. 

 

 

The Divorce Workbook for Children

Even if kids seem like they are handling the divorce well, parents need to provide opportunities for them to work through the emotional turmoil that is brewing beneath the surface. This divorce workbook, geared toward kids ages 6-12, is a good place to start. There are 40 activities for kids to work through independently. The focus is to help remove children from the center of conflict and give them skills to communicate their needs and feelings.

 

 

 

My Family is Changing: A Drawing and Activity Book for Kids of Divorce

This is a really good resource that includes lots of short stories about divorce. The various scenarios include diverse families with different post-divorce arrangements, so most kids will find situations similar to their own. In addition to the stories, the guide includes room for kids to keep a journal and draw pictures to express their feelings. The author also provides insight on what children may expect, like splitting time between homes and creating new traditions.

 

  

Books About Divorce for Tweens and Teens

Divorce is never easy for children, but it can be especially hard for tweens who are dealing with lots of other changes in their lives. Their hormones are in a state of flux, often causing moodiness and emotional instability. Tweens are starting to encounter more complex social scenarios that are confusing to navigate, and they face a new kind of peer pressure. 

Even the most confident teens can suddenly feel insecure. So when parents split up smack in the middle of this challenging period, tweens can feel even more alone, isolated, and emotional than ever before. These books for tweens about divorce can help in a number of ways. Tweens and teens will relate to the characters in these books and all of the obstacles they face when their parents get divorced.

  

The List of Things That Will Not Change

 A refreshing, middle-grade chapter book about a girl, Bea, who is learning how to adjust to life in a blended family. When her parents  first got divorced, Bea started a journal where she documented all the things in her life that would stay the same. At the top of this list is her parents' unconditional love for her. Whenever Bea hits a low point or is dealing with a new challenge, she refers to this list to keep herself grounded. An inspiring, helpful chapter book for tweens and teens dealing with changes at home.

 

 

 

My Parents are Divorced Too

For the 10+ audience, this book written in interview format as three kids discuss their experiences as a blended family. The authors of the book are the children themselves. They share a very open account of their unique experiences, both the highs and the lows, of dealing with the dynamics of divorce and remarriage. 

 

 

 

Weekends with Max and His Dad

Check out this book for middle-grade readers that explores all of the fun, bonding activities that occur when a boy has his dad all to himself.  A third grade boy learns to embrace his second home and new neighbors. Pizza dinners, pancake breakfasts, school projects and new adventures can be more exciting in a whole different setting. This illustrative book expertly addresses the inner emotions of a young boy grappling with a changing family dynamic.

 

Divorce is Not the End of the World

Sometimes the best advice for kids comes directly from kids who have experienced it themselves. In this helpful guide, two pre-teens provide a lot of insightful information on how to navigate multiple households. They also address the roller coaster of emotions that kids will experience. The most important message this book delivers is that perhaps divorce is not the end of the world.

 

 

 

Dear Mr. Henshaw

In this Newbery Medal winning book by Beverly Cleary, a fourth grade boy, Leigh, gets the surprise of a lifetime when his favorite author responds to his letter. A relationship through written correspondence soon develops. Mr. Henshaw turns out to be a a remarkable friend and mentor for Leigh, who is struggling with the recent divorce of his parents and an absentee father, amongst other things. 

 

 

 

Dear Sweet Pea

Dear Sweet Pea is middle-grade chapter book about girl who navigates her parents' most unusual separation while dealing with all other social issues that plague adolescents. Patricia, otherwise known as Sweet Pea, is dumbfounded when her parents split up but purchase identical houses on the same street. As she comes to terms with this strange new family life, she contends with an ex-best friend and lands herself in the role of local advice columnist.

 

 

Blended

In this complex and timely novel, an 11 year old girl spends her life bouncing back and forth between the homes of her divorced parents. Her attempt to find balance with this difficult lifestyle is further compounded by an identity issue. As the offspring of a black father and white mother, she struggles to feel whole. There are many layers to unpack in a book that does not gloss over the reality faced by many kids in mixed race, blended families.

 

 

It's Not the End of the World

You can count on Judy Blume to deliver a book that resonates with pre-adolescent, independent readers. Karen is desperate to keep her family together. Her father moved out weeks ago and her mother seems happy about the divorce. It seems like Karen is the only one who is falling apart, so she hatches a plant to restore the Newman family. Along the way, she learns that maybe it's not the end of the world.

 

 

 

The Great Treehouse War

Winnie's parents drop a bombshell at the end of her fourth grade. They announce they are getting divorced, and that Winnie will split her timely equally between both houses. Therefore, one day a week she will sleep in a treehouse equidistant between both of them.  Winnie is less than thrilled with this arrangement and invites several friends to join her in their "embassy". Everyone has their own unique demands in this coming-of-age novel about friendship, family, and life lessons.

 

 

 

Raymie Nightingale

Raymie Nightingale carries the weight of the world on her shoulders. Her father has abandoned the family, so she concocts a plan that she believes will lure him back home. A National Book Award finalist, this coming-of-age novel weaves together a story of heartbreak and friendship. A relatable tale of divorce that will resonate with middle grade readers. 

 

 

Just Pretend

 A graphic novel for tweens tackles many complex issues. Tori is already balancing her life with both her mother and father, both of whom treat her like a baby. As if moving back and forth between two homes wasn't difficult enough, Tori is dealing with friendship issues. Fortunately, she is a creative writer who likes to get lost in her fantasy stories. The magic, fairies and witches that come to life in her journal help her cope with a complicated reality.

 

 

Mom's House, Dad's House for Kids

An extraordinary guide designed to help kids navigate the many complicated aspects of separation and divorce. The book is filled with tips on resiliency and managing complex schedules. Kids are also advised on how to stay out of the conflict while also maintaining relationships with both their mothers and fathers. It's a time-tested, invaluable book for kids who will learn how to come out stronger and more self-reliant than ever before.

 

 

The Do-Over

The Mendoza sisters, Racquel and Lucinda, are struggling with their parents' split. Their relationship is strained as the girls cope very differently with their home life. Racquel tries to take charge and control everything she can, while Lucinda retreats into her music and skating. Just when Racquel thinks that she can orchestrate a reunion between her parents, she discovers that her father has a girlfriend. And to make matters worse, Lucinda actually likes her! Despite some well-planned schemes, Racquel finally realizes that acceptance may just be the best path.

 

 

The Divorce Express

 Phoebe loves her life living in New York City. But when her parents divorce and she is forced to move to the suburbs with her father, this ninth grader is not happy. She misses her friends in the city and is anxious about starting life over at a new school. Riding the train in to NYC every weekend to visit her mom is getting old, too. When her mom announces that she is getting remarried, Phoebe feels like things went from bad to worse. A story about divorce that tweens will appreciate and understand.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 Children's Divorce Books Are Valuable Coping Tools

Helping a child cope requires a commitment from the parents to give them the skills, support, and space to work through their emotions. Reading children's books about divorce is the easiest place to start the healing process for all the reasons below.

• It can be easier to talk about a fictional character in a book than it is to talk about your own feelings. A child may not have the emotional maturity to express everything he or she is feeling about a situation that is incredibly painful. However, discussing a story may be less difficult and eventually open up the door for a more personal.

• Reading kids divorce books gives them the vocabulary to express their emotions. Young children are often in the middle of  a complex situation that can be emotionally overwhelming. Little kids may have a hard time finding the words to communicate what they are feeling inside, which can lead them to act out in undesirable ways. Reading to your child helps develop their verbal skills and enhances their ability to talk about emotions.

• Children's books about divorce offer inexpensive therapeutic value.  For just a few dollars, the same book can be read over and over again. Children can revisit important lessons and stories that helped them understand the situation a little better. You should make sure to buy a diverse selection of books. Balance out the reading material so that some books present a upbeat, positive outlook while others address the hard, ugly parts. Both types of reading material add value and will prove helpful.

• It's important for kids to know they are not alone. When a child witnesses other families who are happily intact, an already painful divorce can feel even worse. Visiting with friends who have both parents at home can feel like salt in an open wound. Children can often experience feelings of isolation, loneliness, jealousy and despair. Reading books about divorce will help alleviate some of these feelings. 

• Authors who are family therapists and counselors provide tools and techniques to handle the difficult moments. Find some good workbooks and journals that are age appropriate. These books are usually written by therapists and psychologists who are experts on divorce. When your child is feeling particularly sad, provide them with guides to work through some of these difficult emotions.

 

   

 

Tips for Helping Children Cope with Divorce

Divorce is a multi-layered, complex process that is both emotionally and financially draining. When children are involved, it further complicates an already difficult situation.  Oftentimes parents struggle to find the right words to comfort a child in the wake of a divorce.

Reading can open up opportunities to talk about feelings. As parents, you can get a peak at how the child is handling the situation and address their worries, feelings, and confusion. Here is some additional guidance to help children navigate and come through the other side with as little distress as possible. 

More Books to Help Kids Cope With Family Change

Kids' Books About New Baby Sibling

Best Children's Books About Moving

 

 

 

Tip 1: Kids Need to Understand that It's Not Their Fault

It is not uncommon for parents to argue about issues involving their children, especially when their marriage is dissolving.  The arguments may be about child-related expenses, household duties, schoolwork, mealtime, or a myriad of other things. Usually these kinds of fights are a symptom of an underlying marital problem. But unfortunately, the kids are left feeling guilty and responsible for the divorce. Make sure to have very direct, ongoing conversations with your children about the fact that they are not at fault in any way for the divorce. Keep an open dialogue and reinforce this message whenever appropriate.

 

Tip 2: Do Not Speak Poorly About the Other Parent

This is one of the most difficult tips to follow, especially if one parent is more at fault than the other. When a divorce occurs as a result of a betrayal, an addiction, financial disparities, emotional abuse, or some other reason, it's natural to want to share these details with the children. Keep in mind that kids, depending on their age and maturity, are not capable of understanding complex marital problems. Also, it's crucial to keep a child's relationship with both parents intact, especially when the each one is still fulfilling their obligations as a mother or father.

 

Tip 3: Keep the Child's Life as Constant as Possible

When parents are going through a divorce, time, money and resources are stretched beyond reason. However, it's really important to try and keep the children on the same pre-divorce routine. Staying involved with sports and other extracurricular activities is more important than ever before. The time they spend at practice is a healthy break from stress at home. Also, it's important for kids to understand that the other aspects of their lives will be unchanged. The same routine, boundaries, and expectations of the children should stay in place.

 

Tip 4: Find a Good Therapist for Your Child

Make it a priority to find a child therapist who specializes in divorce. Even if your child seems to be adjusting to the separation, you should make an effort to find someone they can trust to talk about it. Even if both parents have a healthy relationship with their children, it's important for them to have a neutral, professional adult who can dispense guidance and listen. The effects of divorce on a child can last years, sometimes even a lifetime, so a few quick sessions isn't a solution. This will be a process with no defined end date. However, if you invest in the time and resources your child needs now, you can expect a good outcome.

 

Tip 5: Do Not Compensate by Spoiling Your Children

This is one of the toughest rules to follow, especially since parents usually feel guilty about the effect of the divorce on their children. It's a natural response for parents to go overboard and buy their children toys and treats. These things may make the child smile temporarily and bring the parents some relief in the moment, but the long term effects are undesirable. While it's okay to do some fun things to take a child's mind off the divorce, steer clear from excessively spoiling them with spontaneous, exorbitant gifts. 

 

 

Alarming Statistics and Facts About Divorce

Getting divorced is an incredibly difficult process for couples who had previously promised to spend the rest of their lives together. The emotional and financial toll it takes on families can be devastating, at least temporarily. When children are involved, divorce is even more complicated.

Negotiating custody and child support can lead to a tug-of-war between the parents that drags out for months or even years. And yet, this is a very real situation for millions of moms and dads who are concerned about how their children will cope with it all. Here are some facts about statistics about divorce that will shed some light on how many people are affected and some common reasons why it happens so often. 

• Close to 50% of all marriages in the U.S. will end in divorce or separation. To break this number down further, researchers estimate that marriages end in divorce according to the following: 41% of first marriages,  60% of second marriages, and 73% of third marriages. 

• First marriages that end in divorce lasted an average of about 8 years. Of those who remarry, they wait an average of around 3 years.

• The age when people get married plays a role in the divorce rate. For example, 60% of couples who marry between the ages of 20-25 will get divorced. However, people who marry after age 25 are 24%b less likely to divorce.

• Couples with children are 40% less likely to get divorced than those without children. But don't let that number fool you. As many as 50% of children in the U.S. will witness the break-up of their parents' marriage.

• Children raised by parents who are happy and stay together are 14% less likely to get divorced themselves. 

• The average divorce in the U.S. costs about $15,000.  Families with kids can experience a 50% drop in income. In fact, 60% of people living below poverty are divorced mothers and their children.

• Finances are a major contributing factor to divorce rates. Research has shown that couples who fight about money on a weekly basis are 30% more likely to get divorced. Furthermore, amongst spouses who believe the other spends money frivolously, the divorce rate jumps by 45%.

• The average age of divorce is 30 years old. A higher percentage of women (66%) file for divorce compared to men. 

• Researchers have found that children of divorced parents are 50% more likely to marry someone who also grew up with parents who split.

• Data has shown that divorce can be a cycle that is hard to break. For example, if one spouse comes from a divorced home, the chance of divorce spike to 50%. And if both spouses come from divorced parents, data points to a 200% higher rate of divorce.

• Couples who drink (or abstain) together, stay together. If they both drink heavily or both steer clear of alcohol, spouses are less likely to divorce. However, if one spouse drinks a lot and the other does not, the likelihood of divorce is 60% higher than average.