Divorce can be a turbulent time, not only for the parents but especially for the children involved. To address the emotional challenges that arise during and after divorce, the Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority (ECA), in partnership with MAAN, launched the Bedayat Program. This initiative is designed to support families with children under the age of 8 by providing resources, counseling, and guidance that help both parents and children navigate the complexities of separation.

The Bedayat Program is an innovative response to the growing need for structured support systems during divorce. Recognizing that children are particularly vulnerable during family transitions, the program equips parents with the tools necessary to mitigate the negative emotional and psychological impacts of divorce on their children.

Key Features of the Bedayat Program:

1. 1. Holistic Approach: The Bedayat Program adopts a holistic framework, addressing the needs of both parents and children. The program goes beyond standard counseling by combining individual therapy, group support, and educational workshops tailored to each family’s unique situation. This comprehensive approach ensures that every aspect of the family's well-being is taken into account.
2. 2. Parent-Focused Support: For parents, the program offers:
   
   • ◦ One-on-one counseling sessions, allowing for personalized advice and strategies to cope with emotional distress.
   • ◦ Group sessions where parents can share their experiences and learn from others navigating similar challenges.
   • ◦ Workshops that cover essential topics such as effective communication, co-parenting strategies, and understanding the emotional needs of children during divorce. These workshops equip parents with practical tools to reduce conflict and prioritize their children’s well-being.
   • ◦ A comprehensive toolkit, which provides resources for ongoing support and self-care throughout the divorce process and beyond.
   
   
3. 3. Child-Focused Support: The well-being of children is at the heart of the Bedayat Program. Tailored services for children include:
   
   • ◦ Individual play therapy, which helps children express their feelings and emotions in a safe and supportive environment.
   • ◦ Support groups where children can connect with peers who are going through similar experiences, reducing feelings of isolation.
   • ◦ Parent-child bonding sessions that promote healthy communication and emotional connection during this challenging time.
   
   
4. 4. Program Duration and Follow-Up: The program runs for eight weeks, offering intensive support during the divorce process. Follow-up evaluations at two and four months after completion help ensure the program's long-term impact and offer additional support as needed.

Positive Outcomes:

The Bedayat Program has demonstrated significant positive results. Parents report improved relationships with their children, enhanced emotional stability, and better communication with their ex-spouse. Children benefit from a more stable emotional environment, resulting in fewer behavioral issues, better coping mechanisms, and improved overall well-being.

The program underscores the importance of providing targeted, structured support during a time of family upheaval. By addressing both the emotional and practical needs of parents and children, the Bedayat Program ensures that families can navigate the difficult transition of divorce with resilience and strength.

For more information, reach out to the Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority to learn how the Bedayat Program can support your family through this challenging period.