Sandcastles Program for Children of Divorce

Created by M. Gary Neuman, this internationally recognized program focuses on the emotional well-being of children (ages 6–17) experiencing family separation.

Purpose: To provide a safe environment where children can express complex feelings like confusion, anger, or guilt that they might otherwise hide to protect their parents.

Methodology: The program uses a "projective" technique, where children use creative tools like age-specific workbooks, drawings, poetry, and role-playing to "project out" their internal emotions.

Format: It is often delivered as an intensive 3.5-hour group session. In many U.S. jurisdictions, such as Dade County, Florida, participation is mandatory for families before a final divorce decree is granted.

Resources: Neuman authored the guide Helping Your Kids Cope with Divorce the Sandcastles Way, which provides scripts and strategies for parents to build healthy co-parenting relationships.