What the study found
Children's transitions between homes after parental separation were shaped by five contextual factors: changeover locations, transition routines and rituals, transitional containers, transitional objects, and transitional people. Parents described a range of ways to support children's emotional wellbeing during these transitions.
Why the authors say this matters
The authors say the findings have practical insights for family law system professionals. They also conclude that the findings have implications for staff in elementary schools, kindergartens, foster care, and child day-care who support children's transitions to and from these settings.
What the researchers tested
The researchers conducted in-depth interviews with 40 separated parents, including 13 mothers and 27 fathers, recruited mainly through family and relationship support services. The sample was non-probability purposive, and two-thirds of participants reported high levels of interparental conflict; 45% had shared-time arrangements.
What worked and what didn't
Some parents felt safer or more comfortable using public locations rather than homes for changeovers. Parents used visual timetables, comfort items, and calming routines to support children's emotional wellbeing, and siblings and grandparents often provided continuity and support. The abstract does not report a single intervention tested or a comparative effectiveness result.
What to keep in mind
The sample was non-probability and purposive, so the findings are based on a specific group of interviewed parents. The abstract does not describe limitations beyond the sample characteristics, and it does not provide quantitative outcome comparisons.
Key points
- The study identified five factors shaping children's transitions between homes after parental separation.
- Some parents preferred public locations for changeovers because they felt safer or more comfortable there.
- Parents used visual timetables, comfort items, and calming routines to support children's emotional wellbeing.
- Siblings and grandparents were described as providing continuity and support during transitions.
- The authors say the findings have implications for family law professionals and staff in schools, foster care, and child day-care.
Disclosure
- Research title:
- Children’s home transitions vary by setting, routine, and support
- Authors:
- Bruce Smyth, Megan Reid Hobbs, Jan Stokkebekk
- Institutions:
- Australian National University, University of Bergen
- Publication date:
- 2026-01-01
- OpenAlex record:
- View
- Image credit:
- Photo by Pavel Danilyuk on Pexels · Pexels License
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