Read the following scenario and brainstorm how you would respond. Then, share and discuss your responses with a trainer, coach, or administrator. When you are finished, compare your answers to the suggested response.

Andre is an eleven-year-old boy in your school-age program. His parents have shared with you that they are going through a divorce, and are very concerned about Andre. They would like to spend more time with him and also find resources to help him cope. How do you respond?

You might encourage Andre’s parents to volunteer in the program if their work schedules allow. They might be able to provide program support or expertise in a hobby or interest, chaperone at events and on field trips, or come prior to pick-up and play basketball or a board game with Andre. You can also connect Andre’s parents with various community resources and put together a helpful reading list about coping with divorce. Also, brainstorm together a mutual plan of how you will communicate how Andre is doing at home and in your program. Be sure to keep anecdotal notes that you can share with Andre’s parents.