When Parents Live Apart: Helping Kids Feel Secure in Two Homes

*“My mom and dad divorced when I was around two years old. I don’t remember my father being around—not really. I didn’t see him again until I was ten, and even then, it was just a few moments in time until much later, when I made the effort to reconnect.
But it wasn’t just my story I saw—I watched it unfold over and over again in my own family. The custody schedules. The tension. The arguments over time. And the quiet hurt I saw in the kids’ eyes.
I know what it looks like when families break—and what it can feel like when you're a kid caught in the middle.”

It’s one of the biggest reasons I wrote My Family – Lives Apart.

This picture book is for the child who packs a bag every Friday.
For the one who lives in two bedrooms but still wonders where “home” is.
For the parents trying their best… even when it’s messy.

What This Book Teaches

My Family – Lives Apart gently helps children understand that:

• It’s okay to have two homes.

• Grown-ups might not live together anymore, but they still love you.

• You’re never the reason for a divorce—and you are never alone.

This book uses simple, loving language and expressive illustrations to help children ages 5–7 feel grounded during a difficult time.

Real Tips from Real Life

If you’re a parent, grandparent, or teacher, here are a few tips that might help:

• Create consistent routines in both homes. Kids thrive on patterns—even little ones like bedtime stories or Saturday pancakes.

• Keep transitions gentle. Let them take a favorite toy or a photo back and forth. Those items help bridge the gap.

• Avoid putting them in the middle. Don’t ask them to choose or carry messages. They just want to feel loved on both sides.

• Let them talk. Or not. Some kids open up right away. Others need space. Either way, let them know you’re always ready to listen.

Why This Matters

I’ve seen the pain of divorce, but I’ve also seen resilience.
And when adults do the hard work with love and care, kids come through stronger.

That’s what this book is about—making sure no child has to carry more than they should.

If you know a family going through separation or divorce, this book might help spark a healing conversation.