Miss Piggy And Kermit Call It Quits

Celebrities are breaking up in droves. In the past few weeks Ben Affleck and Jennifer Garner have split. Country singer Reba McEntire says it’s over with husband Narvel Blackstock. Black Shelton and his wife Miranda Lambert are calling it quits. Gwen Stefani and Gavin Rossdale are finished. And now after decades together, Muppet stars Kermit and Miss Piggy have posted this:

“After careful thought, thoughtful consideration and considerable squabbling [we] made the difficult decision to terminate our romantic relationship. We will continue to work together on television (“The Muppets”/Tuesdays 8pm this fall on ABC) and in all media now known or hereafter devised, in perpetuity, throughout the universe. However, out personal lives are now distinct and separate, and we will be seeing other people, pigs, frogs, et al. This is our only comment on this private matter…unless we get the right offer. Thank you for your understanding.”

Failed relationships are something we’ve come to accept or even expect in the world of beautiful people. However this announcement, which feels like a blatant and orchestrated plug for “The Muppets” upcoming television program, shows how pervasive breakups have become. The Muppets have always included jokes aimed at adults and now their breakup—which is sure to be revisited once the show begins—is moving them more solidly into adult-oriented programming. While the dissolution of their personal relationship may be fodder for future comedy sketches, the humor will be lost on children, especially children dealing with their parents’ divorce.

Helping children deal with a divorce can be challenging for parents who are experiencing their own emotional rollercoaster. Here are nine tips to help minimize the negative impact of divorce on children:

1. Don’t confide in your kids about adult concerns.

2. Don’t “bad mouth” your ex.

3. Don’t quiz your kid about the other parent.

4. Don’t make major changes in your child’s life if you can avoid it.

5. Continue to parent as you always have.

6. Encourage your kids to call the other parent.

7. Learn how to help your child cope with divorce.

8. Get outside help for a child who is struggling with the divorce.

9. Get help if you and your ex can’t interact civilly.

While Kermit and Miss Piggy are likely hoping for plenty of laughs over their split, helping children deal with the breakup of their family isn’t something to be taken lightly.