Project Lemonade

M.A.R.C.H. collaborates directly with local agencies and schools to implement an evidence-based prevention program. This program is designed to help children cope with challenging family changes and offers 4 distinct age-appropriate curricula. 

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In order to be most accessible to children on a consistent basis, this program is offered in schools. M.A.R.C.H. collaborates directly with local agencies and school personnel to have the program delivered to children.

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The curriculum for the Children of Divorce Intervention Program (CODIP), was developed at Children’s Institute by JoAnne Pedro-Carroll, Ph.D., Sara E. Sutton, Ph.D., Aaron E. Black, Ph.D., Linda Alpert-Gillis, Ph.D., and Sharon Sterling, Ph.D.

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Program Goals:

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• Minimize the emotional and behavioral problems that may result when children experience divorce in their families

• Increase children’s ability to identify and appropriately express their divorce-related feelings

• Increase children’s understanding and acceptance of divorce-related concepts

• Reduce children’s anxiety and worry about their family circumstances that can interfere with academic achievement

• Build confidence by teaching specific skills to help children cope with a variety of challenges

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Benefits:

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• Reduced desire of children to blame themselves or someone else for the divorce

• Increased coping skills and the ability to solve personal problems and to let go of problems that are beyond their control

• Enhanced positive perceptions of themselves and their families

• The positive, supportive group environment of peers in the school setting allows children to share their experiences and learn from one another

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How it Works:

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• School personnel, community members, or parents refer children to the program

• Trained group leaders conduct 12-15 group sessions at school

• A series of four procedure manuals and specially designed board games target different age ranges to ensure that each child receives age-appropriate information and skill-building activities

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Awards & Recognition:

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• Evidence-Based Program - National Registry of Evidence-based Programs and Practices (NREPP): Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)

• Lela Rowland Award for Outstanding Prevention Program - National Mental Health Association

• Award for Program Excellence - U.S. Department of Health and Human Services: SAMHSA

• Exemplary Program - Association of Family and Conciliation Courts

• Successful Program - New York State Education Department

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For further information about the curriculum visit:

https://www.childrensinstitute.net/programs-and-services/codip