For the Sake of the Children: reducing stress and conflict between separating parents

January 30, 2019

This post is presented in partnership with PLEIS-NB

Separation can be a time of pain, confusion and sorrow. Parents and their children may experience a great sense of loss and will often need help to understand and cope with all the changes that come with separation.

The New Brunswick Department of Justice and Office of Attorney General offers a program called For the Sake of the Children. It is a free six hour program divided into two sessions of three hours each. It is offered in 12 locations across the province and is designed to provide the type of information parents need:

To understand what they are going through, both legally and emotionally; and
To help them cope with and adjust to separation so that they can help their children adjust.

Separation is an adult issue. Children do not make the decision to separate, yet they are greatly affected by that decision. The effects of separation on children largely depend on how parents manage their relationships after the separation.

Research and experience show that it is continued conflict between the parents that causes the most harm to children, not the separation itself. For the Sake of the Children teaches ways to reduce the conflict between parents and also relieve the stress they are experiencing. It focuses on helping parents help their children.

The program covers:

Adults`experience of separation;
Children’s experience of separation;
Children’s needs at different ages;
Planning parenting after separation;
Alternatives to Court;
Reorganizing;
Legal issues;
Economic issues;
The costs of conflict and the benefits of keeping conflict low;
New partner issues;
Communicating with your child’s other parent;
Communication with your child;
Effects of conflict on children.

Professionals knowledgeable in separation and divorce issues conduct the For the Sake of the Children program. It is especially beneficial for parents experiencing separation. Both parents are encouraged to participate and will be registered to attend separate sessions. The program is also open to others who might be involved or affected by the separation.

How to Register: To register for a FREE session, please call toll free: 1-888-236-2444 or email at FTSOTC@gnb.ca

Participants may be asked to help evaluate the program by completing a questionnaire. This feedback is important, as it will help to improve For the Sake of the Children and to develop future programs for parents.

For the Sake of the Children was developed by Manitoba Family Services and Housing,and is presented with permission by the New Brunswick Department of Justice and Office of Attorney General.Funding assistance for this program is provided by Justice Canada.