Two Homes One Heart Story
Two Homes, One Heart
A Story About Family Changes
Sometimes, things change.
Families are like a puzzle. Sometimes the pieces need to be moved around to find the best fit. Your parents have decided to live in different houses. This is a big change, and it's okay to have big feelings about it.
It is NOT because of you.
Grown-up decisions are for grown-ups to make. This change is not happening because of anything you did, anything you said, or anything you thought. You are a kid, and your only job is to be a kid.
All feelings are okay.
You might feel sad one minute and angry the next. You might even feel confused or worried about where you will stay. This is normal. Your heart is learning a new way to be, and that takes time.
Two places to call "Home."
Living in two houses might feel strange at first. You will have two beds, two sets of rules, and maybe even two different favorite snacks. But in both places, you are the most important person.
You can love them both.
You don't have to choose a side. Loving one parent doesn't mean you love the other one less. Your heart is big enough to love everyone, and everyone loves you right back—no matter which house you are in.
One thing never changes...
You are loved, you are safe, and you are not alone.
If you want, draw a picture here of something that makes you feel happy and safe:
My Peace Plan Handout
My Peace Plan
Simple ways to feel calm and strong
Breathe Like a Balloon
When you feel worried, try this 3-step breathing trick:
1. Inhale Breathe in through your nose for 4 seconds. Fill your belly!
2. Hold Hold that big breath in for 2 seconds.
3. Exhale Slowly let it out through your mouth like a balloon.
The Grounding Anchor
When your mind is racing, use your senses to come back to the "now":
5 Things you can SEE right now.
4 Things you can TOUCH (your desk, your shirt).
3 Things you can HEAR (a clock, a car outside).
2 Things you can SMELL (lunch, fresh air).
1 Thing you can TASTE (or your favorite flavor).
Things I Can't Control
- • Where my parents live
- • The court's decision
- • How other people feel
Things I CAN Control
- • Using my breathing tricks
- • Talking to a safe adult
- • Playing my favorite game
- • Being kind to myself
My Safe People
Write down names of adults you trust (like a teacher, counselor, or relative):
1. __________________________________________________
2. __________________________________________________