During the first meeting, I share information and answer questions about the range of services I can provide in the role of Neutral Child Specialist is shared. This is a joint meeting so a neutral, respectful working relationship can be established with both parents. Obtaining developmental histories of children is a central part of this meeting, as is discussion of specific concerns parents may have about their children’s adjustment to the family transition. If parents have not yet had a conversation with their children about the upcoming transition, I often help guide parents in the crafting of a respectful and developmentally appropriate We Statement.
If parents are interested in a child-inclusive process, we discuss how and when to best involve their children, and how to prepare their children for the first meeting.