In an Australian first, parents and carers who are going through separation or divorce now have access to a free, self-directed online course, which is university-developed and based on extensive research.

Family Transitions Triple P Online, developed by the Triple P – Positive Parenting Program, is an easy-to-use online resource that gives proven tips and strategies for managing the transition in a way that can boost parenting confidence and minimise the impact on children.

Dr Helen Stallman, Clinical Psychologist and co-author of Family Transitions Triple P, said statistics show that almost half of Australian divorces involve children under 18.

"Parenting can be challenging at the best of times. Add separation or divorce on top of that, and it can become even harder. It's normal for parents and carers to feel concerned about how this big life change may affect their child,” said Dr Stallman.

“In the program, parents get evidence-based tips and strategies to avoid common parenting traps, help kids adjust, manage emotions and co-parent effectively. And while the program recognises this is often a tough time for families, it's not just about coping skills, it's also about evolving and moving forward in a new family dynamic.”

"The research shows divorce itself isn't harmful to children. It's how parents and carers manage the transition through separation and divorce that has the potential to negatively impact children," said Dr Stallman.

"Free access to Family Transitions Triple P Online will help many more parents and carers to navigate this pivotal time more confidently. Whether one or both parents do the program, it can make a difference, with practical tips and strategies to use now and in the future,” she said.

During 2022, 49,241 divorces were granted according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) and data released in December 2023.
Family Transitions Triple P has been evaluated and shown to effectively reduce child behaviour concerns, reduce stress, depression, anxiety, and anger in parents, and reduce co-parenting animosity.

Triple P recognises that every family is different, which is why Family Transitions Triple P Online can be personalised to suit different circumstances. The free online program supports parents and carers to:

• create a stable, reassuring environment for children
• reduce adverse effects and help them feel supported, reassured and secure
• help children and themselves to manage emotions and develop good coping skills
• handle challenging moments more calmly and confidently
• build effective communication and problem-solving skills to reduce conflict and co-parent more effectively
• adapt and evolve in their new family dynamic.

Parents and carers who do Family Transitions Triple P Online will join the currently more than 300,000 parents and carers across Australia, and millions across the world, who have benefited from the trusted help of the Triple P – Positive Parenting Program.

"Like all of Triple P's free online parenting programs, it can assist parents and carers in navigating the ups and downs, boosting their confidence, and helping them to raise happy, resilient and capable children,” said Dr Stallman.

Parents and carers can sign up to Family Transitions Triple P Online now.