In brief: What to read with your child when your family changes

Think of every picture book your child has ever loved. How many show a family going through separation? Almost none - so what does that silence tell a child whose reality looks very different?

Kate is joined by Elizabeth Rudnick, whose picture book First Night at Dad's was born from her own experience of separation. Together they explore the gap in children's literature around divorce, why the right story can make a real difference - and how to start the conversations that matter most.

We talk about:

• Elizabeth's personal story of separation and what it taught her about how children process change
• Why so few children's books reflect the reality of separated families
• The milestones we forget to mark - why a child's first night at dad's deserves the same acknowledgement as their first steps
• Why the right book helps both child and parent through a tricky moment together
• Practical tips for talking to your children about separation in an age-appropriate way

This episode is for any parent who wants to support their child through separation but isn't sure where to start - and for anyone who works with or cares for children going through family change.

Meet Elizabeth Rudnick

Elizabeth Rudnick has worked in publishing for over two decades as a writer, editor, and agent. She has written more than thirty books including the Young Adult novel Tweet Heart, as well as numerous bestselling Disney novelisations such as _Cinderella, Frozen, Moana, _and Beauty and the Beast. _First Night at Dad's _is her first original picture-book. Elizabeth lives in North Carolina, with her son and their dog.

You can find First Night at Dad's on Amazon, and you can get in touch with Elizabeth on her website or on Instagram.

More divorce resources

Need expert help right now?

Book a free 15-minute consultation with an amicable expert for guidance on the legal, financial, emotional or co-parenting aspects of separation. Or explore our Separating with Children Service - a 90-minute joint session with a Co-parenting Specialist tailored to your family’s needs.

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Kate’s book amicable divorce includes dedicated chapters on co-parenting, with practical guidance on supporting your children's wellbeing, talking to them in age-appropriate ways and building a cooperative co-parenting relationship that reduces conflict. Find it on Amazon today.

Want to stay organised as co-parents?

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