Question: I have been separated from my husband for a year now, and I have tried to inform my daughter of this.

Got a Question? If your second-grader has an academic or school-related behavior problem you would like help solving, send it to mysecondgrader@greatschools.net. More on GreatSchools.net Bright Ideas for Divorced Parents Ask the Experts About Second-Graders

At first she asked about him all the time and suggested that he was at work. Now she understands that he is not home and she asks if we are divorced. I always tell her that even if we get divorced, it is not because of her. I tell her that we both love her. She always likes to stay with him because I am the one who makes her study and he does not care as much about studying. Any suggestions of how I can make the transition easier for her?

Answer: Almost all children fantasize about their parents getting back together and worry that the divorce is their fault. Where children are developmentally also contributes to their understanding. It was probably easier for her at age 6 to believe that her dad was at work. Going to work is something concrete she understood. "Separation" is a harder concept to grasp.

By second grade she has a better understanding. You mentioned that you told her, "even if we get divorced…" I'm sure it must be a challenge to explain things if there is a possibility that you might reconcile. The anxiety about not knowing can be very stressful for all concerned.

If you are unsure about divorce, empathize with her that it must be hard waiting for mom and dad to decide. It would be ideal if you and your ex-husband talk with her together about what you have planned, and what routines and rules will be enforced. If you know that you will divorce, let her know when that will occur and any changes in schedules that may happen as a result.

Many parents understandably feel that one parent is favored by the child because of discipline issues. My experience working with families is that while it often appears that way, children want to be with their parents because they are their parents. However, children do test the limits and the boundaries with each one. This will happen whether you remain together or apart.

GreatSchools has wonderful information and resources about children and divorce which can be useful in your case, as well. Let the teacher know about this situation so that she can be aware of any behavior changes. Family therapy might be helpful to guide you through these transitions as well.

Debra Collins is a licensed marriage and family therapist. Debra has worked in both primary and middle schools as a school counselor. She gives workshops to teachers and students on a variety of topics concerning youth and families and offers parenting classes and parent coaching to parents throughout the Bay Area. Debra is also a mental health assessor for the San Francisco Unified School District.

Advice from our experts is not a substitute for medical or other professional advice and services from a qualified health-care provider familiar with your unique situation. We recommend consulting a qualified professional if you have concerns about your child's medical or emotional condition.

September 2007