Part Two/ Divorce DISCUSSION
Apply what you have learned while practicing communication with caregivers.
A parent of a family you work with has an infant and three-year-old and tells you they are going through separation and divorce. They ask you for your advice on doing what is best for their child.
After reading the article from Zero to Three, what information do you think is the most important for them to know?
OPTION 1 – Write: Write an email to the parents (in four paragraphs minimum). Clearly answer all of the questions below.
OPTION 2 – Record: Create and post a 3-minute (or less) audio or video recording of yourself that would be sent to the parents (you talking to the parents.) Clearly include all of the items in the questions below.
Paragraph 1 & 2- Summarize at least 2 sections that you think are most important from the article.
Paragraph 3 – What are 2 or more questions could you ask them in your email to gain more information that would be helpful to your work with their child?
Paragraph 4 – Describe 2 or more hopes you have for this family.
Expert Solution Preview
Dear [Parents],
I hope this email finds you well. I recently received the news that you are going through separation and divorce, and I can only imagine how difficult this must be for you. As a medical professional specializing in child development, I understand that this can be a challenging time for your child as well. I have read an article from Zero to Three that I believe contains important information that will help guide you in supporting your child through this transition.
Two sections of the article particularly stood out to me and I would like to share their key points with you. Firstly, it emphasized the importance of maintaining a consistent and predictable routine for your child. Research has shown that following a consistent schedule can help provide a sense of security and stability during times of change. As you go through this process, it might be helpful to create a daily routine that includes regular meal times, nap times, and bedtime, to ensure that your child feels safe and secure.
Secondly, the article emphasized the need to prioritize open and honest communication between both parents and with your child. It is crucial to explain the changes that will be happening in a developmentally appropriate manner. This means using simple language and concepts that your child can understand. It is also essential to reassure your child that the separation and divorce are not their fault and that both parents still love them. By fostering an environment of open communication, you can help your child express their feelings and concerns, which in turn can support their emotional well-being.
In order to better assist you and customize my approach to working with your child, there are a couple of questions I would like to ask. Firstly, it would be helpful to understand how your child has been responding to the news of your separation and divorce. Are there any changes in their behavior, such as increased clinginess, withdrawal, or aggression? Secondly, I would like to know if there are any specific concerns or challenges you have noticed regarding their adjustment to the new situation. The more insight you can provide, the better equipped I will be to support your child in my work.
Lastly, I want to express my hopes for your family during this challenging time. My first hope is that through open communication and a strong support system, you and your child will navigate this transition with as little disruption and distress as possible. I hope that both of you can establish a positive co-parenting relationship that allows your child to feel loved and secure in the presence of both parents. My second hope is that you find the necessary resources and guidance to help you navigate the emotional and practical aspects of divorce, ensuring the well-being of everyone involved.
Please know that I am here to support you and your child throughout this process. If you have any further questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out to me. I am committed to providing the best care possible for your child, and I am confident that together we can help them thrive in the face of these changes.
Take care and stay strong.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
