It's Not Fair: New book helps kids to adjust when mum and dad separate

It's essential parents communicate clearly and in an age-appropriate way with their children about why they are separating 

“Yes, it hurts when breaking up: It rarely comes out of the blue and there may be a build-up of conflict for a long time,” says McCarthy, who has worked with child-and-family agency, Tusla, and who now runs a Cork-based consultancy, supporting families in times of challenge, crisis, and change.

Parental separation hurts. The parents are in turmoil and grieving the loss of their relationship, but they have to keep their children’s needs front and centre.

This child-centred focus is the basis for a new illustrated book by Deirdre McCarthy, a social worker and lecturer in trauma-informed care at University College Cork. It’s Not Fair highlights that parental break-up can upset and confuse children, causing them to worry about their future. Where will everyone live? When will they see their parents?