Relationships Quick Answers
What can I do to understand how my infant or toddler is feeling about the divorce?
Young children often express their feelings through play
or artwork, instead of talking about them. You can
provide your child with play materials that may help him
or her express feelings. Suggested materials for
toddlers are: playdoh or clay, art supplies, puppets,
dolls, dollhouse and furniture, stuffed animals, and
dress-up clothes. Watch your children playing and notice
themes that seem related to family changes, for example,
pretending to pack a suitcase and move away. Try to
avoid correcting your child's play or drawings or asking
direct questions. Children are more likely to open up
when adults watch them, wait until the child is ready to
talk, and make indirect comments, like "I wonder why
your doll is sad."
Source: Kim Leon, Ph.D., Former Human Development and Family Studies, College of Human Environmental Sciences, University of Missouri-Columbia
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Last update: Wednesday, August 20, 2008
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