No matter how amicable the split may be, divorce is a complex and stressful experience for everyone involved, including your children. It is important to remember that your children are not responsible for the end of the marriage, and their well-being should remain your top priority throughout the process. Our experts at Orshan, Spann & Fernandez-Mesa want to provide valuable tips for helping your children cope throughout this challenging time.
Tips for Helping Your Children Cope With Divorce
Avoid Involving Them in Parental Conflict
It is important to remember that you and your ex-spouse have differences, but those differences should not involve or impact your children. Avoid using them as messengers or asking them to choose sides. When discussing matters related to the divorce, keep it civil and never talk badly about the other parent in front of them. Keeping your issues to yourself will help the children feel secure and loved during such a tumultuous period.
Look Into Therapy
Therapy can be beneficial for both children and adults going through a divorce. It gives kids a safe place to talk about their feelings without feeling judged or criticized by either parent.
A therapist can be a helpful guide for best handling certain situations, such as:
- When one parent moves out.
- When there is tension between the two parents during drop-offs or pick-ups.
- How to navigate their emotions regarding these changes.
Finding the Right Therapist
When selecting a therapist, make sure you find someone who specializes in working with children of divorced families and has experience addressing issues associated with divorce, such as:
- Grief
- Uncertainty
- Anger
- Fear
- Depression
They should also have an approach that works best for each child depending on age, gender, or other relevant factors since every kid reacts differently to difficult situations.
Keep Life as Normal as Possible
Try to keep life as normal as possible by maintaining routines like bedtime rituals or homework schedules so kids feel secure in familiar activities during such an uncertain time. Additionally, if there are any changes in living arrangements or school due to the divorce, try to explain them clearly and calmly beforehand, so they don’t feel caught off guard by sudden shifts in routine later on down the road.
Related articles you might find helpful: Benefits of Collaborative Law For Divorce Resolution, Helpful Tips for Moving Forward After Divorce, Overcoming Common Challenges Following Divorce
If you are going through a divorce and are seeking further support, our experienced attorneys at Orshan, Spann & Fernandez-Mesa have the knowledge and resources to help. Contact us online or give us a call to let us know how we can help you and your family. (305) 853-9161