Every family is different and special in its own way.
Some kids live with both of their parents, while others might live with one parent and spend time with the other. Some kids have two mums or two dads. Some kids live with their grandparents, or an aunt or uncle. Some kids have family members who live far away and speak different languages.
In all families, it’s important that kids spend time with the people who are important to them and live with adults who can care for them and make good decisions about them.
Sometimes families change. This can happen for lots of different reasons, but is often because parents decide to separate (not live together anymore). If your parents have separated it is important that you know that this is not your fault.
When families change they often need to figure out some important things, like who kids will live with and when they see or talk to other important family members. Adults in the family should try to work together to make these decisions, but it can be hard, especially when they have different ideas about what is best for kids. Sometimes families ask the Family Court to help with these decisions.
It can take time for decisions to be made, and that can be tough for everyone. Once decisions are made, it might take a little while for everything in the family to feel okay again, but nearly all kids find things get better over time.
Some things that might change
- You might not spend as much time with one or both of your parents
- One of your parents might move to a new home, so you could have a new room
- You might live in a new neighbourhood or start at a new school
- You might not see your friends as often (but you might make new ones)
- Some of the adults in your life might feel sad or angry and might not get along
- You might move away from some family members, and live closer to others
- You might stop seeing someone in your family if they aren’t safe to be around
- You might miss someone you don’t see as much anymore (but you might still be able to FaceTime or call them).
Things that won’t change
- Both of your parents still love you
- Lots of people still care about you, like your family, friends and teachers
- You can still enjoy activities you like such as playing games, reading, drawing
- You still have the right to feel listened to
- Your feelings are important, and you can still talk to trusted adults if you feel unsafe, worried, or confused
- It’s okay for you to laugh, have fun, and feel happy, even when things are changing.
