It is well known that it takes a substantial amount of both time and money to raise children. It is also known that the amount of time and money that parents invest in their children has some impact on the developmental outcomes for children.
This report is the second stage of the Families with Dependent Children – Successful Outcomes project. It combines and discusses results of a literature review, focus groups, and other relevant studies. It presents a cohesive picture of the diverse range of issues important to New Zealand families with dependent children.
This report, prepared by Charles and Kasia Waldegrave for The Families Commission, highlights the critical role of parents and caregivers in the physical development of children's brains.
New Zealand couples who are separating may avoid contested care of children if they can negotiate and maintain parenting arrangements themselves. This report shows how some couples have set aside their personal and relationship issues and put their kids first.
Separated parents who took part in a new Families Commission research project advise putting the kids needs’ first when sorting out arrangements for care post-separation.
This study examined the value of including children in the mediation counselling process provided by the Family Courts when their parents separate. The report includes both practice and policy implications of the findings.
Published by the Office of the Children's Commissioner, UNICEF New Zealand and the Families Commission, this document helps us to better understand the issues around the need for us to change our behaviour and treat our children more respectfully.
