Last week, something happened that stopped me in my tracks.

I recently hired a coach who specializes in working with neurodivergent teens for my son. I was so proud of myself for being proactive… until I told him.

My almost-11-year-old looked at me and said:“You didn’t ask me first?!”

I was speechless.

He was right. I am still treating him like a little kid, planning his life for him without realizing he’s a tween now. He is at a new stage of life, forming his own identity and sense of autonomy as a sovereign being. 🤯

Big Transition for Everyone

Teenagers (and pre-teens) are already navigating hormones, identity shifts, and big emotions. When you add separation or divorce into the mix… it can become overwhelming for everyone.

That’s why in this new episode of Untying the Knot, I sit down with mediator Colette Fortin from Fairway Divorce Solutions (Kitchener–Waterloo) to talk about practical ways to support your teen through this transition.

Here’s what we get into:

• How to break the news to your teen without emotional overload
• If (and how) to ask for their input on living arrangements
• Balancing structure and flexibility for older teens
• What to do if your teen refuses therapy or doesn’t want to see the other parent
• Introducing new partners, navigating graduations, and how to keep your teen out of the crossfire

If you’re lying awake wondering,“Is my teen really okay?”This episode will give you grounding, language, and tools you can use right away.

And if you want more practical tips, Colette also created a short guide for parents navigating separation with teens.

👉 Read it here: A parent’s guide to divorce and teenagers: supporting adolescents through family change

https://fairwaydivorce.com/resources/blog/a-parent-s-guide-to-divorce-and-teenagers-supporting-adolescents-through-family-change/