Let’s start by stating the obvious: divorce can be really tough on the children. As responsible parents, we don’t want to see our children sad or upset. Divorce has a way of putting even the most well-intentioned parents in tough situations.
Research says that there are things you can do to minimize the strain of your divorce on your children. Divorce won’t ever be a pain free experience for anyone, but, in this article, we’ll share with you some simple tips to help the coping process for your kids.
Both Parents Need to Stay Involved
The most important thing you can do for your children is to create a plan where both parents stay involved. No one likes a bunch of change, especially if it comes by surprise or is routinely unpredictable. Create a schedule where both parents are visible and are still involved with the children.
One-on-one time for each parent is especially important. Children like having that time with each parent, and it will show them that, even though the marriage is ending, they will still have a quality relationship with both parents.
Consistency Is Key
One of the simple ways to minimize the effect of a divorce is stick as much as possible to a normal routine and schedule. It may not be the most convenient thing for you, but it will really help settle the kids down. If they see that their lives are still going to have some consistent structure, it will help them cope.
Your Home Is Not A Courtroom
It’s tempting to blast your ex with heated arguments or legal discussions when you see them. But, these things are best done when the kids are not around. The more arguing, fighting, and screaming occur in the household, the more the children will be scared and anxious.
Younger children (and even teenagers) are in the process of learning how to relate to others, and how to form good relationships. You are still in a position to be a role model, even though your relationship is ending. They will watch you in order to see how you handle things.
Bottom line: a visit to a therapist, a talk with your family attorney, or confiding in friends are all better ways of dealing with arguments than throwing down in front of the children.
Take Good Care of Yourself
Going through a divorce can be one of the most stressful times in your life. You won’t be in a position to take care of others (including your children) if you’re not taking care of yourself. Stress management is a major priority when you are having to deal with financial and custody issues on a daily basis.
Make sure that you have friends that you can talk to and hang out with from time to time. Work out to keep your physical health tuned up; talk to a therapist to keep your mental and emotional health in tip-top shape as well.
These are just a few of the many steps you can take to help your children cope while your divorce is being finalized. An excellent and experienced attorney, like Edidiong Aaron at Family Matters Law Group, can help you locate coping resources for your children. If you’re in Henry County (or any of the metro Atlanta area counties), contact Family Matters Law Group and talk to a caring attorney today.
