Navigating Family Separation: Supporting Children's Well-Being Through Mediation Services

I am sitting in a corner in my bedroom and reflecting.

Looking at running a not-for-profit organization for over 18 years as an early childhood institute and IB-accredited primary school, I have seen it from infancy to early adolescence. Taking another step back, coming from a broken home myself where my parents divorced and remarried, I understand the trauma of families separating and its effects on children. These effects are often understated.

When I look at a toddler who is not even 20 months old, sometimes I wonder why they are withdrawn when they have never been observed this way before. Or when I see a preschooler who now cries every morning as their parent drops them off—not the typical cry, but an anxious cry—I begin to put on my investigative hat. Is something happening inside the early years setting, or is there another trigger?

Then I find out that the parents are separating. They are in the legal system, litigating over parenting time, assets, etc. I think there is a lack in our system to understand the different affordable services available to help middle and lower-income families move forward without the arguments and court services.

An affordable mediation service can help your family come up with a plan that includes a parenting plan, child and spousal support, and asset evaluation, even if you are in a common-law relationship.?Contact us for a free consultation, and we will evaluate the best cost-effective way to move forward. Our mediation services start from $80 an hour to $140 an hour, depending on the complexity of the case.

Please review your child support annually and your child’s schedules based on their developmental needs. Don’t let them become the victims of your separation and divorce. We build their tomorrow with every action we take as adults. Don’t allow your anxious feelings or anger to become the reason why your child will not wish to have contact with you once they are an adult. Give them a voice and a choice.

To better support families through separation, we offer several specialized services:

Collaborative Law

Collaborative law is a legal process that enables couples who have decided to separate or end their marriage to work with their family lawyers and, sometimes, other professionals, to achieve a settlement that best meets the specific needs of both parties and their children without the underlying threat of litigation. This process encourages respectful communication and problem-solving, rather than adversarial strategies, fostering a cooperative environment where all parties can reach an amicable agreement.

Family Mediation

Family mediation is a voluntary process in which an impartial mediator helps family members communicate more effectively and negotiate issues related to separation, divorce, child custody, and other family matters. The mediator assists the parties in identifying their needs and interests, exploring options, and reaching mutually satisfactory agreements. This process is typically less adversarial and more cost-effective than going to court, promoting better long-term relationships and reducing the emotional stress on children.

Child-Inclusive Mediation

Child-inclusive mediation involves the direct inclusion of children in the mediation process to ensure their voices are heard and their needs are considered in decisions about their future. A specially trained mediator or child consultant speaks with the children to gather their views and feelings, which are then brought into the mediation discussions in an appropriate manner. This approach helps parents understand the impact of their decisions on their children and encourages arrangements that are truly in the best interests of the children.

By embracing these methods, we can create a supportive environment that prioritizes the well-being of children and helps families navigate the challenges of separation with dignity and respect. Book a free consultation with us today to explore the best cost-effective solutions for your family's needs. Let’s work together to create a brighter future for you and your children.

Authored By:

Rose Morsh

RECE, Parenting Practitioner,

Family & Child-Inclusive Mediator,

Collaborative Law Family & Child Expert,

International Parent Coordinator & Family Mediator,

Child Voice?Practitioner.