FARMINGTON – In today’s changing families, children are often “caught in the middle” of their parents’ conflict when they separate, divorce or when new stepfamilies are formed.

The University of Maine Cooperative Extension in Franklin County will offer a workshop, “Caught in the Middle,” to help parents deal with the issue from 9:30 a.m. to noon Tuesday, May 17, at the Farmington Town Office. It is free and open to the public. Registration is required by Friday, May 13.

Participants will learn skills that will reduce the feelings of divided loyalties and reduce the negative impact of separation and divorce on their children.

“Parents, of course, want the best for their children during these times of family transitions,” said Wendy Legg Pollock, Extension educator and leader of the workshop. “Yet unfortunately, these feelings of divided loyalties can last for decades – well into adulthood – as parents and others unknowingly continue to do things that keep children caught in the middle.”

“Many adult children of divorce often speak of the struggles of dealing with their parents’ lingering feelings of anger and revenge during family events such as graduations, weddings and even holidays,” Pollock continued. “Some minor changes can reduce the feelings of divided loyalties and free children to love and enjoy both parents.”

To register, call the Franklin County Extension Office at 1-800-287-1478.

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