Some battling couples we’ve seen in mediation have decided to script a simple conversation they could have in front of their children. When parents have done this, we’ve asked them to report on their children’s reactions.

Without exception, children have been stunned just to hear their parents having a simple courteous exchange.

One mother reported that at the end of the parents’ conversation, their preteen daughter looked up in tears and said hopefully, "Mommy, you and Dad were talking."

We’ve asked some parents to write out what they’d said that made such a world of difference for their children. Here are three simple exchanges parents reported.

Exchange Number One

Dad: “I’m sorry we’re late getting back.”

Mom: “No problem. I’m just all the happier to see the kids now that you’re here. Was the traffic bad?”

Dad: “Well, actually, it was poor planning on my part more than any traffic problem.”

Mom: “Well, like I say, don’t worry about it. Did all of you have a good time?”

Dad: “We sure did. Well, kids, be good for Mom until I see you again. Work hard at school, and give me a call after practice tomorrow.”

Child: “Okay. I love you!”

Dad: “I love you, too.”

Mom: “Take good care.”

Dad: “Thanks, and thanks again for understanding about our being late.”

Mom: “That’s no problem. Drive carefully.”

Exchange Number Two

Mom: “I’m glad you were able to make the game. It means a lot to Jennifer.”

Dad: “I’m glad you let me know in time, so thanks for calling.”

Mom: “Well, let’s hope she plays as well as last week.”

Dad: “I bet she will.”

Mom: “Why don’t we meet up to congratulate her at the end of the game? We can meet at the candy machines and talk for a couple minutes before I take her home, okay?”

Dad: “That’d be great. Thanks.”

With all their losses from their parents’ divorce, don’t children deserve at least this?