In my practice, I utilise acceptance and mindfulness strategies to help children build psychological flexibility and navigate big life changes. For parents looking to understand the framework we use on our walks, or for fellow professionals seeking excellent clinical tools, I highly recommend the work of Dr. Tamar D. Black.
You can access and explore the official, evidence-based companion worksheets and exercises directly through her publisher:
Books For Children and Families
Books can open doors to difficult conversations. These age-appropriate stories and guides help children process complex emotions and remind them that they are not alone.
The following books have been selected to help children and families navigate separation with reassurance, understanding and hope. Every family is different, so you may wish to choose the book that best matches your child's age and experience.
Two Homes
Recommended age: 3–7 years
A gentle story that reassures young children they are loved, safe and belong in both homes after separation.
Two Birthday Cakes
Recommended age: 3–7 years
An Australian story that celebrates the positives of living across two homes while helping children adjust to family change.
The Invisible String
Recommended age: 4–10 years
A comforting story that reminds children that love and connection remain strong, even when families live apart.
Dinosaurs Divorce
Recommended age: 5–10 years
Answers children's most common questions about separation in an honest, reassuring and child-friendly way.
One Family, Two Homes
Recommended age: 6–10 years
Written with the voice of a child, this book helps children understand, express and normalise their experience of living across two homes.
The Suitcase Kid
Recommended age: 8–12 years
A relatable novel exploring the emotions of moving between two homes and finding a sense of belonging after separation.
A Kids Book About Divorce
Recommended age: 9–13 years
An honest and accessible guide that encourages children to understand their feelings and know they are not alone.
Step by Wicked Step
Recommended age: 10–15 years
A thoughtful novel that explores separation, remarriage and blended families through the experiences of several young people.
Mom's House, Dad's House
Recommended audience: Parents and caregivers
A respected guide to child-centred co-parenting, offering practical strategies to help children feel secure, loved and supported across two homes.
Please note: These books have been selected because they are widely recommended by child and family professionals. Every family is unique, so not every book will suit every child or family situation.
Practical Tips & Guidance for Families
Raising Children Network: A trusted, evidence-based guide from Australia's parenting website on maintaining daily routines and supporting your child's emotional health.
Evidence-Based Co-Parenting Courses for Parents
Parents often need structured frameworks to learn how to keep their children out of adult conflict.
Triple P Framework:
Family Transitions Triple P Online a highly regarded, university-developed online course explicitly designed to teach parents how to handle transition conflict calmly.
Skill-Building Workshops:
Interrelate’s Parents not Partners Course a 6-week program that helps parents separate their past relationship with their ex from their ongoing parenting obligations.
📞 Immediate Support Services & Helplines
If your family needs extra care, professional advice, or confidential counselling outside of our weekly program sessions, these trusted support services are available to help.
For Kids:
Kids Helpline (1800 55 1800) for free, private, 24/7 counselling.
For Parents:
Family Relationship Advice Line (1800 050 321) for free advice on parenting arrangements and locating local mediation support.
🛡️ Safety & Wellbeing Support
If you or someone you know is experiencing stress, mental health challenges, or controlling behaviour at home, confidential support is available 24/7.
Beyond Blue | 📞 1300 22 4636
Immediate, confidential support for anxiety, depression, and overall mental health wellbeing for both adults and young people.
Full Stop Australia| 📞 1800 385 578 (1800 FULL STOP)
Trauma-specialist counsellors supporting anyone experiencing domestic violence, sexual assault, or coercive and controlling behaviour.
1800RESPECT | 📞 1800 737 732
The national domestic, family, and sexual violence counseling service. Safe to call for advice if you suspect coercive control in your relationship.