Going through a divorce is often a challenging experience for adults. Many don’t think about how much this milestone affects the children, though.
There are several things that kids might worry about when their parents are going through a divorce. As the adult in the situation, you need to ensure that you’re doing everything possible to help your kids adjust to this new normal. You have to think about what might affect them so you can address those points.
Keep the peace with your co-parent
Parents should focus on not bringing drama around their children. Make a point of not having your kids pass messages between you and your co-parent. Instead, talk directly with another. If a topic is potentially contentious, find some time to talk about it when your kids aren’t around. This enables you to present a united parenting front and builds reassurance among your children.
Help your children feel more secure
Children often worry about whether both their parents will be able to attend important events in their lives. They may think that the parents’ divorce means that they’ll have to choose between them. This shouldn’t ever be the case. Encourage your kids to have a meaningful relationship with your co-parent and family members on both sides of their family. Your divorce shouldn’t take away their loved ones.
Divorcing parents need to make a point of putting their kids’ needs first. This includes you and your co-parent locking in a parenting plan so that your kids can get their new routine down pat. It can also help if you and your co-parent set guidelines for raising your children, as continuity can positively impact your kids’ behaviors and continued development.
