Helping Children Adjust to Divorce: A Guide for Teachers Human
Development State Extension Specialist Human Development
Specialist, Pike County Approximately one of every two divorces
in Missouri (51 percent) involves children. Although children
whose parents divorce are at greater risk for problems such as
aggression, depression, lower self-esteem and poorer school
performance, most children adjust to the divorce successfully.
However, the adjustment process is stressful and takes time. It
is typical for children to experience distress for 1 to 2 years
following the divorce. Schools can play an important role in
helping children make a positive adjustment to their parents'
divorce. This guide suggests ways that schools, preschools and
childcare centers can support children through difficult family
transitions. By working together, families and schools can form
a network of support that promotes healthy child development.
There are four key elements of successful family-school
relationships — approach, attitu