Helping Children Understand Family Change: Our Recommended Reading List
At The Family Mediation Trust, we know that one of the hardest parts of separation or divorce is helping children make sense of what’s happening. Books can play a powerful role in that process — offering comfort, reassurance, and a way to explore feelings safely through stories.
We’ve gathered a list of well-loved, bestselling titles that parents, carers, and mediators often recommend when supporting children through family change.
Very soon, you’ll be able to buy each book directly through our website via Amazon links, with all proceeds going to The Family Mediation Trust, a registered charity supporting families across the region.
Books for Younger Children
Angry Arthur – Hiawyn Oram - https://amzn.eu/d/c4hcIZD
A classic picture book that helps children understand big feelings — and how to manage anger in a healthy way.
Dinosaurs Divorce – Laurene Krasney Brown & Marc Brown - https://amzn.eu/d/gctZm6O
A bestselling guide for young children explaining divorce with humour, empathy, and friendly dinosaur illustrations.
Grace and Family – Mary Hoffman & Caroline Binch - https://amzn.eu/d/7UAhSI8
A story about love, family, and belonging, showing that families come in all shapes and sizes.
I Don’t Want to Talk About It: A Story of Divorce for Young Children – Jeannie Franz Kansom - https://amzn.eu/d/1igHTc0
Warmly written to help children express feelings of confusion and sadness when parents separate.
I’ll Always Love You – Paeony Lewis - https://amzn.eu/d/5FjIXVm
A gentle story reminding children that love is unconditional, even when things change at home.
I’m Special, I’m Me! – Ann Meek & Sarah Massini - https://amzn.eu/d/imSt9zt
A reassuring picture book celebrating individuality and self-worth.
It’s Not Your Fault, Koko Bear – Vicki Lansky - https://amzn.eu/d/baG6nk2
A much-loved classic for children whose parents are divorcing — helps them understand that it’s not their fault.
Missing Rabbit – Roni Schotter - https://amzn.eu/d/7uE5fiD
A tender exploration of loss and change, perfect for younger readers navigating big emotions.
Mum and Dad Split Up – Elizabeth O’Laughlin - https://amzn.eu/d/4opz1Cz
Simple, honest storytelling that helps children understand what happens when parents separate.
My Family’s Changing: A First Look at Family Break-Ups – Pat Thomas - https://amzn.eu/d/0VIhOIC
Part of the bestselling “A First Look At…” series, this book helps children recognise and talk about feelings during family changes.
My Parents Still Love Me Even Though They’re Getting Divorced – Lois V. Nightingale - https://amzn.eu/d/e75PPDP
A straightforward and reassuring guide for children, encouraging open conversations about change and love.
Mum and Dad Glue – Kes Gray - https://amzn.eu/d/6LG7kiB
A touching and beautifully illustrated story showing that even when parents separate, their love for their child remains whole.
Not a Worry in the World – Marcia Williams - https://amzn.eu/d/gl8idBo
A thoughtful story that helps children put worries into perspective and remember they are loved and supported.
Sad Book – Michael Rosen - https://amzn.eu/d/hAYYbDW
A powerful, honest book about sadness — compassionate and deeply moving for children and adults alike.
Two Homes – Claire Masurel
A family favourite that helps children understand that having two homes can mean double the love and security.
Was It the Chocolate Pudding? – Sandra Levins - https://amzn.eu/d/hXdsJX3
A light and humorous look at divorce through the eyes of a young boy, helping children understand they are never to blame.
When My Parents Forgot to Be Friends – Jennifer Moore-Malinos - https://amzn.eu/d/fsbzjPk
A practical and positive story about parents who stop getting along — and how children can cope and still feel safe.
The Huge Bag of Worries – Virginia Ironside - https://amzn.eu/d/1AuB50w
A bestselling book that helps children recognise, share, and let go of worries — a perfect companion to family change.
Helpful Websites for Older Children & Teens
A Note for Parents and Mediators
Each of these books has been recommended by professionals working with children and families. They can open up conversations, give language to complex emotions, and remind children that — whatever changes around them — love, care, and security remain constants.
By purchasing through our links, you’ll not only gain valuable resources for your family or practice — you’ll also be supporting the charitable work of The Family Mediation Trust, helping us continue to make mediation accessible for families across the region.