Talking to children about divorce is one of the hardest conversations a parent can face. You may be filled with your own emotions—guilt, sadness, worry—but your child needs your calm, honest, and age-appropriate guidance to make sense of what’s happening. No matter how old they are, kids need reassurance that they are loved and that the divorce is not their fault. Here’s how to talk to children about divorce in a way that supports their development and emotional well-being—tailored to their age and stage. Toddlers and Preschoolers (Ages 1–5) At this age, children won’t fully understand what divorce means, but they will sense stress and changes in their routine. They need simple explanations and consistent reassurance. What to say: “Mommy and Daddy are going to live in different houses. You didn’t do anything wrong. We both love you and will always take care of you.” What helps: Keep routines as consistent as possible. Use books or toys to help explain changes. Expect regressions in behavior—this is a normal way they process change. Avoid negative talk about the other parent. Early Elementary (Ages 6–9) Kids this age can understand that divorce means their parents won’t live together anymore, but they may still believe it’s their fault. They often worry about what will happen to them and may feel torn between both parents. What to say: “We both love you, and we’ve decided we won’t be married anymore. It’s not your fault. You’ll still get to spend time with both of us.” What helps: Be prepared to repeat information often. Answer questions calmly, even if they’re asked repeatedly. Let them know it’s okay to love both parents. Give them ways to stay connected to each parent, like a shared journal or photo book. Tweens (Ages 10–12) Older children can understand more about relationships and may want more details. They may feel angry, embarrassed, or worry about what their friends will think. This age group benefits from honesty and a chance to express their emotions. What to say: “We’ve had problems for a while, and we’ve decided this is the best choice for our family. We know it’s a big change, and we’re here to talk whenever you need.” What helps: Acknowledge their feelings—even if they’re negative. Avoid putting them in the middle or asking them to take sides. Give them a sense of control, like letting them help decorate their new bedroom or choose the calendar for parenting time. Watch for withdrawal or changes in school or social behavior. Teens (Ages 13–18) Teens understand complex emotions and may have strong opinions. They might blame one parent, shut down emotionally, or try to take on adult responsibilities. Some may act like they don’t care, but underneath, they are often deeply affected. What to say: “We know this affects you, and we want to be open and honest. You don’t have to take sides. We’ll keep working together to make things as stable as possible for you.” What helps: Encourage open dialogue but don’t force it. Give them time and space to process. Continue to set boundaries and expectations—don’t let guilt lower your parenting standards. Consider counseling if they’re struggling. Tips for Every Age Be a united front. If possible, plan what you’ll say together and talk to your child as a team. Stick to age-appropriate language. Avoid oversharing adult details. Reassure them often. Kids need to hear that both parents love them and that things will be okay. Keep communication open. Let them know they can always come to you with questions. Take care of yourself. Children pick up on your stress. Make space for your own healing so you can support theirs. Final Thoughts Your child doesn’t need a perfect explanation—they need your love, honesty, and support. Divorce is a huge life transition, but with thoughtful communication and consistency, kids can adapt and even thrive. You don’t have to have all the answers. Just being present and listening can make all the difference. If you're co-parenting, it’s also helpful to keep your message consistent between homes. When both parents commit to supporting the child emotionally, it lays the foundation for resilience and emotional health. This post was written by Chelle Hendershot, who is a dedicated Mediator, Guardian ad Litem, and Parenting Coordinator at Hope For Our Future, LLC, with a passion for helping individuals and families navigate through life's most challenging moments. This post is not intended to be legal advice and is for marketing purposes only. Photo Credit: 2856770 Childhood Stages Thomas Perkins Dreamstime.com

When summer rolls around, there’s a lot of pressure to make it memorable. Social media is filled with big vacations and expensive outings but the truth is, kids don’t need fancy trips to have fun. They just need your time, a little imagination, and a chance to explore. Backyard adventures can be some of the most meaningful moments for kids no packing, no driving, and no entrance fees required. Whether you’re a full-time parent or co-parenting with a schedule, these easy ideas can fit into almost any day. Here are some simple and budget-friendly backyard activities to try this summer. 1. Backyard Obstacle Course Use what you already have pool noodles, hula hoops, boxes, or jump ropes to build an obstacle course. Let your kids help design it and take turns timing each other. Add a sprinkler at the end for a splashy finish. 2. DIY Nature Scavenger Hunt Make a list of simple things to find: a red leaf, a bug, something soft, something round. Print it out or draw it together. This is a great activity for all ages and can turn an ordinary yard into a world of discovery. 3. Campout at Home Set up a tent or make a fort with blankets under the stars. Add flashlights, s'mores in the microwave, and some campfire stories. You don’t have to sleep outside to make it magical. 4. Sidewalk Chalk Art Festival Give kids chalk and let them turn the driveway into an art gallery. Add a twist with chalk games like hopscotch, four-square, or drawing prompts (“draw your dream pet”). 5. Water Balloon Piñata Fill balloons with water, tie them from a tree branch, and take turns swinging at them with a plastic bat or stick. It’s fun, hilarious, and perfect for a hot afternoon. 6. Mud Kitchen or Nature Play Station Old pots, pans, spoons, and a little dirt and water can keep little ones busy for hours. Add flowers, leaves, or food coloring for extra fun. Let them make “recipes” and serve you backyard delicacies. 7. Backyard Movie Night Use a sheet and a projector (or just a laptop on a table) and show a family movie outside. Popcorn, pillows, and blankets turn it into a full event. This works great for parenting time evenings. 8. Bug or Bird Watching Station Set up a small observation zone with binoculars, a notebook, and a bird guide or app. Encourage kids to draw or write down what they see. It’s a quiet activity that builds focus and wonder. 9. Lemonade Stand (Even If It’s Just for You) Let kids make and decorate their own lemonade stand even if they’re just serving the family. It’s a fun way to play pretend, practice math, and feel a sense of accomplishment. 10. Frozen Toy Rescue Freeze small toys in a container of water. Give your child tools like spoons, salt, or spray bottles to “rescue” the toys from the ice. It’s simple sensory fun and science rolled into one. Why These Moments Matter You don’t need to go anywhere to make memories. When children look back on summer, it’s the laughs, the silliness, and the time spent together that they’ll remember most. These activities are also great for building connection during parenting time transitions, helping children feel grounded and safe. Backyard fun gives you a way to be fully present no distractions, no stress, just joy. This post was written by Chelle Hendershot, who is a dedicated Mediator, Guardian ad Litem, and Parenting Coordinator at Hope For Our Future, LLC, with a passion for helping individuals and families navigate through life's most challenging moments. This post is not intended to be legal advice and is for marketing purposes only. Photo Credit: 147432855 Marysmn Dreamstime.com

When families go through major changes—like divorce, separation, a move, or a new partner—it can be hard on everyone. But for kids, these transitions can feel especially overwhelming. Their world is shifting, and they may not fully understand what’s happening or how to express what they’re feeling.  As a parent, there’s a lot you can do to support your child through big life changes. Even if you can’t control the situation itself, the way you guide them through it can make a huge difference in how they cope and adjust. Let Your Child Feel What They Feel Kids don’t always have the words to describe their emotions, but they know when something feels “off.” They may act out, become quiet, or ask the same questions over and over. That’s all normal. Here’s how to help: Validate their feelings. Say things like, “It’s okay to feel sad or confused.” Avoid rushing them to ‘be okay.’ Healing takes time. Give them space to talk—or not talk. Just being present goes a long way. Every child reacts differently to change. What matters most is that they feel heard and supported. Keep Routines as Consistent as Possible Even if your family dynamic is shifting, your child still needs structure. Routines give them a sense of security when everything else feels uncertain. Try to: Keep bedtime and mealtime schedules steady Maintain school and activity routines Continue traditions, like weekend breakfasts or bedtime stories These familiar rhythms help kids feel like some parts of life are still safe and predictable. Be Honest—In a Kid-Friendly Way It’s important to be honest with your child about what’s happening, but that doesn’t mean oversharing or involving them in adult issues. Stick to basic, age-appropriate truths: “We’re going to live in two different homes now, but we both love you.” “Things will be different, but we’re working to make it better for you.” “It’s not your fault.” Kids don’t need every detail. What they need most is reassurance that they are loved and cared for, no matter what changes around them. Don’t Put Them in the Middle One of the most stressful things for children during family transitions is feeling stuck between parents. Avoid: Speaking negatively about the other parent Making your child choose sides Using your child to pass messages If there’s tension between co-parents, try to keep it away from your child as much as possible. You may need support from a parenting coordinator or mediator to make this work—and that’s okay. Give Them a Voice (But Not the Responsibility) Children should feel safe to express their thoughts and preferences, especially during transitions like moving, changing schools, or adjusting to new schedules. That said, they shouldn’t carry the weight of big decisions. Let them know: You want to hear how they’re feeling Their opinions matter The adults are still in charge of making the hard choices This balance helps kids feel empowered but not overwhelmed. Watch for Signs They’re Struggling Changes at home can sometimes lead to emotional or behavioral shifts. Be aware of: Sleep problems or frequent nightmares Drop in grades or interest in activities Withdrawal, aggression, or clinginess Physical complaints like stomachaches or headaches If you notice these signs, consider connecting with a counselor, school therapist, or pediatrician. Getting support early can make a big difference. Offer Extra Love and Patience Transitions are a time when kids need more comfort, not less. Find ways to show extra love, even in the little moments: Hugs and snuggles Simple affirmations like “I’m proud of you” or “You’re safe” Quality time, even if it’s just 10 minutes of focused attention Let them know that while life is changing, your love for them is not. You Don’t Have to Do It Alone Supporting your child through family changes can be emotionally exhausting. If you’re co-parenting, consider mediation or parenting coordination to help reduce conflict. If you’re parenting solo, lean on your support system—friends, family, professionals. And most importantly, take care of yourself too. A well-supported parent is better able to support their child. In Closing Change is hard—for everyone. But it can also be a time of growth and new beginnings. With patience, consistency, and love, your child can come through family changes feeling stronger, more connected, and more resilient. This post was written by Chelle Hendershot, who is a dedicated Mediator, Guardian ad Litem, and Parenting Coordinator at Hope For Our Future, LLC, with a passion for helping individuals and families navigate through life's most challenging moments. This post is not intended to be legal advice and is for marketing purposes only. Photo Credit: 141458546 Communication Fizkes Dreamstime.com

If you’ve ever found yourself rereading old texts, trying to remember who said what—or wishing you had a better way to keep your co-parenting life organized—you’re not alone. Co-parenting is hard enough on its own, but when communication breaks down, it can lead to even more stress, confusion, and conflict.  That’s where parenting apps come in. These tools aren’t just for keeping track of schedules—they can make communication more peaceful, consistent, and clear. Whether you’re navigating a high-conflict situation or just looking for ways to stay organized, a parenting app can help. Why Consider a Parenting App? Parenting apps are designed specifically for families living in two households. They help keep everything related to your child—messages, schedules, expenses, documents, and more—in one secure place. These apps: Minimize miscommunication Provide a record of conversations Help manage shared calendars and expenses Reduce the need for direct, emotional conversations Give structure when communication is strained For many families, these apps create a much-needed sense of order in an otherwise unpredictable co-parenting relationship. Popular Parenting Apps to Explore There are several co-parenting apps available, each with its own strengths. Here are a few worth looking into: 1. OurFamilyWizard This is one of the most widely used apps in family court settings. It includes: A shared calendar Messaging with tone filters Expense tracking A journal feature Access for third parties (like mediators or attorneys) It’s great for high-conflict co-parents who need detailed records. 2. AppClose This app is free and user-friendly, making it a good option for families on a budget. It offers: Messaging Calendar tools Requests for parenting time swaps Document sharing AppClose doesn’t have the same court features as some paid apps, but it works well for basic co-parenting needs. 3. TalkingParents TalkingParents focuses on secure messaging and accountability. It keeps: Complete records of conversations Shared calendars A payments feature for tracking expenses Some courts may recommend or even require this app when communication is especially strained. Tips for Using a Parenting App Effectively Simply downloading an app won’t solve communication issues overnight. To get the most out of your parenting app, keep these tips in mind: 1. Use It Consistently Don’t bounce between texts, emails, and the app. Stick to one platform so nothing gets lost or misinterpreted. 2. Keep Messages Child-Focused Use the messaging feature to talk about your child—not your personal frustrations. Stay focused on logistics, health, school, and activities. 3. Avoid the Emotion Trap When communication happens through an app, there’s more time to pause and think before responding. Use that space to choose your words carefully. 4. Log Everything Important Use the app to record changes in parenting time, medical updates, or school information. If something ever becomes a legal matter, you’ll have documentation in one place. 5. Use Shared Calendars for Transparency Put everything on the calendar—visits, school breaks, soccer games, doctor appointments. This reduces the back-and-forth and keeps both parents in the loop. When Parenting Apps Are Especially Helpful Parenting apps can be helpful for almost any co-parenting situation, but they’re especially useful when: There’s ongoing conflict or mistrust You’re following a court order or parenting plan You’re trying to build better communication habits You need to keep clear records for future court involvement One parent tends to forget dates or responsibilities Even if things are relatively peaceful, using an app shows your kids that you’re both working to stay organized and involved. Building a Better Co-Parenting System Co-parenting isn’t easy—but using the right tools can make a big difference. Parenting apps create space for calm communication, help both parents stay informed, and reduce the stress of keeping everything straight. Over time, that structure leads to better collaboration—and that’s a win for everyone, especially your children. This post was written by Chelle Hendershot, who is a dedicated Mediator, Guardian ad Litem, and Parenting Coordinator at Hope For Our Future, LLC, with a passion for helping individuals and families navigate through life's most challenging moments. This post is not intended to be legal advice and is for marketing purposes only. Photo Credit: 124127119 Dzmitry Baranau Dreamstime.com

Divorce changes many things—but it doesn’t have to damage the connection you have with your children. In fact, this can be a time to build even stronger bonds as you adjust to your new life together. Whether you have primary custody, shared parenting time, or just a few days each month, there are meaningful ways to make the most of your time and show up in your child’s life in a way that counts. Here are some creative, low-pressure ways to strengthen your relationship with your child after a divorce—no expensive trips or grand gestures required. 1. Create New Traditions Together Your family might not look the same as it used to, but you can still create memories that are uniquely yours. Try: A Friday night pizza-and-movie tradition Sunday morning breakfast runs A “Yes Day” once a month where the child plans the day (within reason) A monthly family photo walk to document your time together Kids thrive on consistency, so these new routines give them something to look forward to and help rebuild a sense of security. 2. Write Notes or Leave Messages Sometimes it’s hard for kids to talk about their feelings out loud, especially during or after a family split. Small notes in their backpack, lunchbox, or pillow (“I’m proud of you,” “I love you no matter what”) help keep the connection strong. If you live apart or only see them on weekends, consider: Leaving a short video message Mailing a postcard or drawing Creating a shared journal to pass back and forth This is especially helpful for younger children or kids who aren’t ready to talk openly yet. 3. Involve Them in Everyday Life Not every visit has to be an event. Kids often feel more connected when they’re simply included in your day-to-day activities. Let them: Help cook dinner Pick out groceries Assist with a house project or organizing task Come along for errands and car rides These everyday moments can be just as powerful as special outings. You’re not only bonding—you’re teaching life skills and building trust. 4. Let Them Teach You Something Kids love when adults take an interest in their world. Ask them to teach you: Their favorite video game A TikTok dance How to use a new app or feature A fun skill they learned in school Letting them be the expert builds confidence and shows that you value their opinions. It also gives you insight into what lights them up. 5. Do a Parent-Child Challenge Together Friendly competition is a fun way to bond! Try: A 30-day drawing challenge A reading race (who can finish more pages?) A step-count contest using a phone or watch Learning a new skill together (like origami, card tricks, or juggling) You don’t have to be good at it. The key is doing it together and cheering each other on. 6. Make Transitions Easier With Rituals Going from one house to the other can be tough for kids. Try a “transition ritual” to smooth the handoff: Listen to a favorite song on the way to or from visits Pack a special bag or comfort item they take between homes Read the same short story when they arrive Plan a small treat or snack to mark the change These habits signal safety and consistency and make the transition feel more predictable and less emotionally jarring. 7. Keep the Focus on Them—Not the Past You may be dealing with unresolved feelings from your relationship with the other parent. But this time is about your child—not the divorce, not court orders, and not your ex. Avoid talking negatively about the other parent. Instead, use your time to really see your child: what they’re into, how they’re growing, what they’re feeling, and who they’re becoming. Final Thoughts Rebuilding and deepening your relationship with your child after a divorce takes time, patience, and presence—but it’s absolutely possible. Children don’t need perfection. They need consistency, attention, and love. Start small. Choose one idea. Build from there. If you’re struggling to figure out how to make the most of your parenting time or need help navigating conflict with the other parent, services like mediation or parenting coordination can help. Sometimes a little guidance can go a long way toward strengthening your family’s future—one connection at a time. Photo Credit: 94464454 Syda Productions Dreamstime.com

In Indiana, establishing paternity isn’t just a legal formality—it’s the foundation for a father’s rights and responsibilities when it comes to child custody and parenting time. Whether you're a father seeking more time with your child or a mother wanting to ensure support and involvement, understanding the role of paternity is key to protecting the child's best interests. This post explains what paternity means, how it’s established, and why it matters so much in family law cases involving custody, parenting time, and child support. What Is Paternity? Paternity is the legal recognition of a man as a child’s father. In Indiana, if parents are married when a child is born, the husband is presumed to be the legal father. But if parents are unmarried, the father must take additional steps to establish paternity—even if he is already involved in the child's life. Without legal paternity, a father has no enforceable rights to parenting time or decision-making—even if he is biologically related to the child. How to Establish Paternity in Indiana There are two main ways to establish paternity if the parents are not married: Paternity Affidavit This form can be signed at the hospital when the child is born or later at the local health department. It must be signed by both parents and filed with the Indiana State Department of Health. This gives the father legal rights, but does not automatically create a parenting time or custody order. 2. Court Order Either parent may file a paternity action in court. If there is a dispute, the court may order DNA testing. Once paternity is established by court order, the court can also enter orders regarding custody, parenting time, and child support. Why Paternity Matters for Fathers Without establishing paternity, a father cannot: Request custody or parenting time through the court Make legal decisions for the child (like education or health care) Have the court protect his parenting rights Establishing paternity is the first step to creating a parenting plan, having shared responsibilities, and building a legally recognized relationship with your child. Why Paternity Matters for Mothers and Children For mothers, establishing paternity is essential for: Seeking child support Ensuring the child has access to both parents' medical histories Allowing the child to qualify for certain benefits through the father (like Social Security, inheritance, or veteran’s benefits) And for children, legal paternity gives them a clearer identity, financial security, and—perhaps most importantly—the right to have a relationship with both parents if it is safe and appropriate to do so. What Happens After Paternity Is Established? Once paternity is confirmed, either parent can request a court order for: Custody – The court decides who will make major decisions for the child and where the child will primarily live. Parenting Time – The non-custodial parent (or sometimes both) can receive a parenting schedule, often following Indiana’s Parenting Time Guidelines. Child Support – Based on income and parenting time, the court may order financial support. Establishing paternity opens the door to these discussions and provides a legal framework for moving forward. How Mediation Can Help Mediation offers a respectful, non-adversarial space to work out parenting agreements after paternity is established. A mediator can help both parents: Develop a parenting time schedule Create a custody arrangement that works for the child Resolve conflict in a child-centered way At Hope For Our Future, LLC, we regularly help parents navigate these conversations without heading straight into courtroom battles. Final Thoughts Paternity is more than paperwork—it’s the legal and emotional foundation of a child’s right to be loved and supported by both parents. Whether you’re a father seeking involvement or a mother wanting to clarify legal rights and responsibilities, taking steps to establish paternity is a powerful first move toward healthy co-parenting.  If you need support with mediation, parenting coordination, or understanding your options after paternity is established, we’re here to help. This post was written by Chelle Hendershot, who is a dedicated Mediator, Guardian ad Litem, and Parenting Coordinator at Hope For Our Future, LLC, with a passion for helping individuals and families navigate through life's most challenging moments. This post is not intended to be legal advice and is for marketing purposes only. Photo Credit: 7182409 Partnerinflight Dreamstime.com

Co-parenting is never easy, but when one parent consistently pushes buttons, crosses lines, or thrives on drama, it can feel nearly impossible. If you’re dealing with a high-conflict co-parent, it’s important to create and maintain clear boundaries—not just for your own peace of mind, but for your child’s stability as well. Boundaries aren’t about punishment or control—they’re about protecting what matters most: your emotional well-being and your child’s environment. What Does “High-Conflict” Look Like? High-conflict behavior can take many forms. Maybe your co-parent: Sends frequent angry or accusatory messages Tries to argue about every decision Refuses to follow your parenting plan Involves the child in adult issues Constantly criticizes your parenting Won’t respect your time, space, or communication preferences These patterns can wear you down and distract from the bigger goal—raising a healthy child in two homes. Why Boundaries Are Essential Boundaries help you decide what you will and won’t allow in your life. They create a buffer between your co-parent’s chaos and your day-to-day peace. Setting boundaries: Reduces stress Protects your relationship with your child Helps you respond, not react Supports consistency and structure Sends a message: this behavior isn’t acceptable You can’t change someone else’s behavior—but you can control how you allow it to affect you. Practical Boundaries You Can Set Here are a few types of boundaries that can make a big difference: 1. Communication Boundaries Use written communication (like texts, email, or parenting apps) instead of calls or in-person discussions. Don’t respond to every message—only those that require a reply. Take time before responding to messages that upset you. You don’t have to reply right away. 2. Time and Schedule Boundaries Stick to the parenting time schedule as outlined in your agreement. Avoid last-minute changes unless there’s an emergency. Set a cutoff time for communication each day (e.g., no messages after 8 p.m.). 3. Emotional Boundaries Keep conversations child-focused. If things shift to personal attacks or blame, stop the conversation. Remind yourself: their behavior is not your responsibility. Don’t allow their tone or choices to dictate your mood or actions. 4. Physical Boundaries Use a neutral public location for parenting time exchanges if needed. If in-person contact escalates conflict, ask a third party to assist or document what occurs. Tips for Holding the Line It’s one thing to set a boundary—it’s another to stick to it when things get messy. Here’s how to stay firm: Document everything : Save texts, emails, and records of exchanges. This is helpful if the situation escalates or needs court review. Stay calm and brief : Don’t engage in arguments. Use “BIFF” responses—brief, informative, friendly, and firm. Don’t respond to bait : If they insult you, ignore it. Only reply to matters about your child. Revisit your parenting plan : If you’re constantly running into issues, it might be time to revisit or revise your plan with help from a mediator or parenting coordinator. How Boundaries Help Your Child Children absorb more than we realize. When they witness constant conflict or feel tension between parents, it can impact their emotional health. By setting and maintaining boundaries, you: Show your child how to handle stress in healthy ways Create a more peaceful environment in your home Keep parenting time transitions smoother and more predictable Protect your child from being caught in the middle Kids benefit most when they feel safe, supported, and free from adult conflict. When You Need Extra Support If your co-parent continues to cross lines despite your efforts, it may be time to involve professionals. A Parenting Coordinator can help reduce conflict by acting as a neutral third party who helps parents follow their court orders and keep things child-focused. Mediation may also help resolve long-standing disputes and clarify your parenting agreement so there’s less room for misunderstanding. At Hope For Our Future, LLC , we offer both mediation and parenting coordination services tailored for high-conflict situations. Final Thoughts Setting boundaries with a high-conflict co-parent isn’t always easy—but it is necessary. It’s one of the best things you can do for your child, and for your own peace of mind. With a clear plan, consistent communication, and the right support, you can create a healthier co-parenting dynamic—even when the other parent isn’t on the same page. This post was written by Chelle Hendershot, who is a dedicated Mediator, Guardian ad Litem, and Parenting Coordinator at Hope For Our Future, LLC, with a passion for helping individuals and families navigate through life's most challenging moments. This post is not intended to be legal advice and is for marketing purposes only. Photo Credit: 88504872 Parent Conflict Prazis Dreamstime.com

Looking for fun indoor activities for kids on rainy co-parenting days? Whether you're sharing time with toddlers, school-age kids, or teens, this guide offers creative, low-stress ideas to turn gray skies into memorable moments. Discover engaging rainy day activities that strengthen your parent-child bond, reduce transitions stress, and make the most of your parenting time—no sunshine required. Includes age-appropriate games, DIY projects, cooking ideas, and co-parenting tips for navigating weather disruptions with grace and positivity.