fd00122_.wmf (3682 bytes)BANANA SPLITS is a support group, a program originated by Elizabeth M. McGonagle, for students who have experienced a family change such as a divorce, separation, or death of an immediate family member. Banana Splits has been in existence at Voorheesville for over 10 years.   This group is offered to all students in grades 1-5. Banana Splits meets during lunch by grade level every other week from late September through May.   At this time, over 30 students take part in Banana Splits at Voorheesville Elementary.  Most groups include approximately 6-8 children.

Banana Splits is an excellent opportunity for students to share their experiences with others, explore feelings, and be supported by their peers. Activities range from biblio- therapy to art projects to board games. Discussions usually relate to feelings about the divorce, dealing with stepparents and blended families, as well as visitations.

Children at Voorheesville Elementary look forward to the end of the year picnic that takes place in early June each year.  Of course, the grand finale of the picnic is the actual eating of  Banana Splits Sundaes.

 

Talking To Children About Divorce

· Parents can be an important source of help and comfort to their children as they adjust to family changes.

· Explain the reason for the divorce. Sometimes children assume that divorce is their fault.

· Reassure children that they are loved and will always be cared for.

· Arrange routine visits with the non-custodial parent whenever possible. Remember that parents get a divorce, not children.

· Go slowly into new relationships, insuring that children know that they will not be replaced by new loved ones.

· Don’t talk negatively about the other parent in front of children. It’s not fair to the child. Set a good example by treating each other with respect. This will show your child that problems can be resolved peacefully.

· Don’t argue in front of children. Arguments can be scary to children, and can cause them to worry about things that only adults should be thinking about.

· Don’t use children as messengers. Divorce is confusing to children, and often makes them feel torn between both parents. They have enough things to work through during a separation or divorce.

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To see what's happening this month in Banana Splits, go to Monthly Happenings

 

last updated 9/21/05