- A Parent's Guide
Sharing the SPLIT Films With Your Children
The SPLIT films help parents better understand how children experience divorce—and help children realize they are not alone.
- Before You Watch Together
Watch the film yourself first
Choose a time when your children are not present so you can process your own reactions before supporting theirs.
Be kind to yourself
The children's honesty may bring up difficult emotions. Talk with another adult, write in a journal, or take a walk if needed.
Your children are not your support
Remember: your children are not your emotional support. Turn to other adults if you need help processing your feelings.
- Watching With Your Children
Helping Parents Make Better Choices
- Choose a relaxed, unhurried time with few distractions.
- Children (ages 6–12): Watch SPLIT: The Early Years together.
- Teens (ages 12+): They may prefer to watch SPLIT UP: The Teen Years on their own first. Respect their choice and let them know you're available if they'd like to talk.
- After the Film
Every Child Responds Differently
The SPLIT films help parents better understand how children experience divorce—and help children realize they are not alone.
- Let your child set the pace.
- Listen more than you speak.
- Accept their feelings without trying to explain, fix, or change them.
- Some of the best conversations happen naturally while driving, taking a walk, cooking together, or at bedtime.
If your child doesn’t want to talk, that’s okay. Let them know you’re there whenever they’re ready. Simply knowing you’re willing to listen can mean a great deal.
- Gentle Conversation Starters
Questions to Open the Conversation
It’s often easier to begin by talking about the children in the film rather than your own family.
- Who was your favorite kid in the film?
- What part did you like best?
- Was there anything that made you laugh?
- Was there anything that made you feel sad or think a lot?
- If one of the kids from the film were here, what would you ask them?
- Extra Support Can Make a Difference
If you have concerns about how your child is coping, consider speaking with a school counselor or child therapist. Ask for support when you or your child need it.
- The Most Important Thing
There is no perfect way to do this. Simply being willing to watch, listen, and make space for your child’s feelings can help them feel understood, supported, and less alone.