Description:	School-based support group using a curriculum to enhance adjustment to divorce
Target group:	Kindergarten to 8th grade
Availability:	Procedure manuals and board game are available

Goals

• Prevent chronic emotional and behavioral problems that can result when children experience divorce in their families
• Foster a supportive group environment
• Facilitate the identification and expression of divorce-related feelings
• Promote understanding of divorce-related concepts and explore misconceptions
• Teach relevant coping skills
• Enhance positive perceptions of self and families

Benefits

Ongoing evaluation from over 50 schools in the Rochester, New York area shows that CODIP provides positive outcomes for children, including:

• Less anxiety and worries about their family circumstances
• Less desire to place blame on themselves or someone else for the divorce
• A better understanding of divorce-related issues and feelings
• A greater ability to solve personal problems and to let go of those problems that are beyond their control

How It Works

• School personnel or parents refer children to the program
• Trained group leaders conduct the groups
• Children meet for 15 group sessions

Awards and Recognitions

• National Mental Health Association's Lela Rowland Award for outstanding prevention program
• Award for Program Excellence from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
• Exemplary Program, Association of Family and Conciliation Courts
• Validated through New York State's Education Department as a successful program

Learn more about Children of Divorce Intervention Program (CODIP)