Children living in separated family situations fare best when their relationship with each of their parents continues to be close. Putting Children First helps mothers and fathers unlock and resolve the conflict around contact with children that can arise during and after separation. Using strategies such as parenting plans, scripted phone calls and parenting meetings, the book will enable parents to communicate effectively on all the most important things in their children's lives - and make relaxed arrangements for the continued involvement by both parents with their children.

Skills and advice for building co-operative arrangements for sharing care of children

About the Author
Karen and Nick Woodall, who both have experience of being separated parents, run the Centre for Separated Families, which Karen founded. The Centre, a national charity, offers support, advice and information to everyone affected by family separation. Karen and Nick live in York

Reviews
...quite simply, the best book on separation that we have ever read. Both the authors work at the Centre for Separated Families and have a wealth of experience with this client group. In this clever book - and its associated 'Parenting Plan s' booklet - they guide both mothers and fathers (they have a real understanding of the needs and experiences of both sexes) through the emotional and practical journey of separation and its aftermath. Their explicit aim is to help parents 'put their children first', but the authors know this cannot be achieved until both father and mother can manage and understand their own feelings. Sensitive, practical, beautifully written, we believe this book should be REQUIRED READING for all professionals working in this field; and should always be offered to separating and separated mothers and fathers * Fatherhood Institute *
The book is clearly set out and the chapters logically and thoroughly explore all the issues that might arise before reaching a conclusion with sound advice on each topic * Parenting Without Tears *
When the authors of a book have been through the scenario and actually run a centre for Separated Families, you know you can trust the content and benefit from the knowledge shared. With family separations being part of today's society, it is important that the children's lives are affected only in a positive way and this can be achieved. It does, however, take a lot of hard work and this is where the book becomes an invaluable tool in the whole process. There could be a tendency to preach but the book focuses on the positive aspects of working together and show light at the end of what can seem a very long tunnel. If you are in this situation, it is great to read this book and know that a happy medium can be reached * From Bump to Grump *



Book Information
ISBN 9780749940003
Author Karen Woodall
Format Paperback
Page Count 288
Imprint Piatkus Books
Publisher Little, Brown Book Group
Weight(grams) 200g
Dimensions(mm) 198mm * 126mm * 24mm