When My Parents Forgot How to Be Friends: A Gentle Children’s Book About Divorce and Separation

Navigating the complexities of divorce and separation can be an emotional rollercoaster, especially for young children. “When My Parents Forgot How to Be Friends” offers a compassionate and relatable story to help children understand and process their feelings during this challenging time. This beautifully illustrated picture book gently guides children ages 3-7 through the experience of parental separation, assuring them that they are loved and not responsible for their parents’ decisions.

Through the eyes of a young girl, readers witness the confusion and hurt that arises when parents argue and ultimately decide to separate. The story emphasizes the importance of open communication, showing how the little girl learns to express her emotions to her mom and dad, leading to reassurance that she is loved unconditionally.

“When My Parents Forgot How to Be Friends” provides a safe space for children to explore their anxieties and fears related to family changes. It reinforces the crucial message that children are never to blame for their parents’ disagreements or their decision to separate. The book addresses common concerns children may have, such as living in two homes, and emphasizes that their parents will always be there for them, regardless of the living situation.

This book is designed to spark meaningful conversations between children and their parents, teachers, or caregivers. It encourages families to talk openly about their emotions, anxieties, and fears, fostering a supportive environment where everyone can begin to heal. By validating children’s feelings and providing a sense of security, the book helps them cope with the changes in their family structure.

The book includes bonus educational content in the back, offering valuable tips and advice for parents on how to support their children through divorce and separation. This resource provides practical guidance on how to communicate effectively, address common concerns, and create a stable and loving environment for children.“When My Parents Forgot How to Be Friends” is part of the “Let’s Talk About It!” series, which addresses various concerns children may encounter as they grow up. These sensitively written books encourage children to explore their feelings, deal with problems, and understand others who have problems of their own.

Key Features:

• Relatable Story: Helps children ages 3-7 understand what divorce or separation means through a relatable narrative2.
• Reassuring Message: Emphasizes that children are not responsible for their parents’ separation5.
• Encourages Communication: Promotes open communication in families about emotions, anxieties, and fears4.
• Addresses Common Concerns: Provides reassurance about changes like living in two homes3.
• Bonus Content for Parents: Includes tips and advice for parents on how to support their children1.
• Beautiful Illustrations: Features engaging illustrations that capture the emotions of the story.
• Social-Emotional Learning: Fosters social-emotional learning by encouraging children to explore their feelings and develop coping strategies.

Why Parents, Teachers, and Caregivers Recommend This Book:

• Gently helps young children understand divorce and separation3.
• Reiterates that children are not responsible for their parents’ situation25.
• Encourages open communication about emotions, anxieties, and fears4.
• Provides a chance for children to ask and answer questions1.

“When My Parents Forgot How to Be Friends” is a valuable resource for families navigating divorce or separation. It offers a comforting and supportive story that helps children understand their feelings, cope with change, and maintain a strong sense of love and security. This book is an essential addition to any home, school, or therapy library, providing a foundation for open communication and emotional healing. It’s a powerful tool for helping children adjust to their new family dynamic with confidence and resilience.

Reading this book together can serve as an effective conversation starter, helping children articulate their concerns and feelings. The story can be internalized over time, providing children with a way to contemplate and sort through their emotions4. “When My Parents Forgot How to Be Friends” offers a positive and optimistic approach to a challenging life event, shaping a child’s outlook on their changing home life14.