Stepfamilies have a bad image. Think of Snow White’s jealous stepmother or Cinderella’s ugly sisters or at the other end of the spectrum, picture the unrealistically positive stepfamily, such as the Brady Bunch. But real life is more complicated that either of those blended family models and children have to come to […]
Despite divorce being on the increase around the world, parents often feel at a loss when searching for practical support. They also feel overwhelmed, confused, afraid, resentful, or completely frozen in panic about how to handle the changes in their family’s way of life. Sometimes this fear manifests itself as animosity, which turns the whole […]
I always remind my clients that going through a Divorce is a process NOT an event and I firmly believe that it is similar to the grieving process described by the eminent American Psychiatrist Elisabeth Kübler-Ross in her 1969 book, On Death and Dying, that was inspired by her work with terminally ill patients. […]
It can be really stressful facing your first Christmas alone. Perhaps, you are finding that you have had 20 years of family Christmases with tinsel and turkey, kids unwrapping their pressies in pyjamas with the Carols singing out on the stereo, the log fire blazing and a full house brimming with family. Then it all […]
Dear Sue I’m worried about Christmas as I’m recently divorced. My kids are still reeling from the changes. What is your advice? Liz Jackson, New Addington, Surrey Most parents worry about this – so you’re not alone The question most co-parent’s worry about is ‘Will I be able to see my children over the […]
Here are some ideas and strategies to help navigate co-parenting during the holiday season: 1. Create a Clear Plan Early Discuss in Advance: Collaboratively plan how Christmas and surrounding holidays will be shared to avoid last-minute conflicts. Alternate Holidays: Consider alternating Christmas Day each year or splitting the holiday break. Share the Day: If […]
Christmas is a catalyst. I often find that I get many clients coming to see me after Christmas about how to separate after spending more time together at Christmas. Christmas acts as a catalyst for change and the New Year offers a new beginning for many. My article Handling Divorce Positively taken from my “Raising […]
I have a client who is going through a divorce and is feeling maudlin about Valentine’s Day. ‘Valentine’s Day is hard enough’ she said ‘when you’re couple & married’ (talk about pressure!) — ‘but when you’re going through a divorce it’s going to be hell!’ So I’ve been pondering how to have fun on […]
I was delighted to have been invited to the House of Commons recently to the launch of the Parents Promise a new HR initiative to support parents going through divorce or separation. Businesses including Asda, Tesco, Metro Bank, PwC and Unilever have partnered with the Positive Parenting Alliance (PPA) to promote more family-friendly policies for […]
Positive co-parenting is essential for the well-being of your children after a separation or divorce. It’s not always easy but it is important so here are some ideas to help. Here are some tips to help you co-parent effectively and create a positive environment for your children: Put Your Child’s Needs First: Remember that your […]
Going through a breakup or becoming newly single while also becoming a parent can be a challenging experience. Here are four pieces of advice to help you navigate this situation: Prioritise Self-Care: It’s crucial to prioritise self-care during this transition. Take time for yourself to heal and process your emotions. Seek support from friends, family, […]
I was speaking on BBC radio about a new piece of research around mental health and stepfamilies. What struck me as unhelpful & laden with negativity is the word ‘BROKEN’ to describe parents who are divorced, separated or apart. Broken implies a failure, broken implies damaged, no longer able to work, something destroyed & dysfunctional but […]
The Stepfamily Cycle I have been working with a lovely family who are finding it hard to adjust to the changes that blending two families together brings. I always remind my clients that bringing together 2 separate families is a process and not an event, and it takes time and flexibility on everyone’s behalf […]
As it’s Valentine’s Day just around the corner I thought it would be a good opportunity to pause when you are stressed, frustrated, angry or tired and to just STOP and ask yourself: What would love do now ?
“One day at a time – this is enough.” ~ Ida Scott Taylor 1820-1915, Author Click here to buy The Divorce Journal for Kids Navigating through Divorce Positively A bad marriage can make parenting and life in general stressful. The loss of the family structure can be very upsetting and distressing for everyone involved […]
A Practical Guide
A calm, practical starter guide from Sue Atkins to help you handle smartphones, social media, gaming, sleep and online pressure — without rows or panic.
Download the free scripts and tips here.
