- Shield your children from the drama. Thousands of children are faced with the burden of divorce each year. Their emotional state following the divorce often depends on their age, personality, and the circumstances of the separation and divorce processes. It is important to safeguard the children by avoiding visible conflict, heated discussions, and legal talk in their presence. It is often recommended to be open with your kids. Internalizing the emotions around divorce is never healthy for any party involved. We encourage conversing with your children, help them put their feelings into words. Be a good listener. You will often find that your children are challenged by the same emotions as you are during this difficult time.
- Maintain Normalcy. Adjusting to life in two separate households can be emotionally challenging for children. From a young age, children find comfort in familiarity. When possible, help maintain the children’s normal course of life. Adjusting living situations and schedules are better done gradually rather than abruptly. When making important decisions regarding your children, it is important to think of the possible benefits/outcomes of the situation. Divorce is a major life change for all children. Prioritizing your children’s social and active life can help relieve the emotional load that comes with divorce.
- Commit to coparenting. Parenting is one of the largest responsibilities any human ever faces. Committing to co-parenting at an early stage can ease any possible conflict to come down the road. Although both parties may not agree at every crossroad, both parents should strive to maintain normal routines, expectations, and discipline. Similar expectations regarding betimes, rules, and homework have shown to reduce divorce induced anxiety, especially in younger children. Easing your expectations, with hopes of being the “favored parent”, tends to make the kids insecure and less likely to recognize your parental authority later. We advocate for strong parental collaboration during this period. Children and parents are often most vulnerable following the announcement of divorce. It is important to maintain strong parental relationships, regardless of the circumstances of the separation. Reinforce the idea that both parents love their children, and the conflict only exists between the parents and not the children.
- Invest in a Therapist. Seeking professional outside help is always encouraged. Therapist have shown to be equally beneficial for kids and parents alike. Therapy is a terrific way to help your children process the large emotions surrounding divorce. Therapists serve as a great neutral party. It is very common for children to be more inclined to speak more openly with a therapist than their parents.
For comprehensive legal support in family matters, turn to Louisiana Family Law Firm. Our dedicated team is here to assist you. Contact us for information or visit one of our convenient locations. Your family’s well-being is our priority.
