Separation and divorce can be painful and confusing for all parties involved. This is especially true for the children of separating couples.
It is important to recognize that you are not the only one hurting while you are going through a divorce. Children often get caught up in arguments and discussions between parents. For the Sake of the Children offers an informative program that helps to educate separating parents about the impact of certain actions on their children. The program reminds us that children are aware of more than we sometimes realize and that it can be very difficult for them to process painful and confusing information, in a healthy way, without the proper support and guidance. In addition, it can be difficult for parents to avoid the temptation to involve their children in their disagreements. For the Sake of the Children can help you to put your differences aside and focus on what really matters–the children!
In Manitoba, it is mandatory for separating parents seeking custody agreements to attend a similar educational program. Here in New Brunswick, however, the program is offered for free to any interested party, but it is not mandatory.
I have personally seen how parents justify using their children as pawns in their battle against eachother. It is not pretty and will ultimately not endear you to a Judge. Remember the words of Ontario Judge Alex Pazaratz in a previous post here.
See below to view the instructional videos shown during the For the Sake of the Children program:
Children: The Experts on Divorce (15 minutes)
Divorce and Separation: Legal Considerations (19:44 minutes)
Vignette #1: Miguel (The Messenger) (7 :27 min.)
Vignette #2: Nathan (The Exchange) (3 :00 min.)
Vignette #3: Denise (The Haircut) (6 :39 min.)
Vignette #4: Jessie (Mom’s house – Dad’s house) (9:41 min.)
For more information, or to register for the program, check out the following links:
- https://www.familylawnb.ca/english/parenting_after_separation
- https://www.gov.mb.ca/fs/childfam/for_sake_of_children.html
For discussion:
- Should For the Sake of the Children or a similar program be made mandatory for parents who wish to separate in New Brunswick?
- Can you think of any issues that may arise with requiring all parents to attend the program before separating and implementing custodial agreements?