Although it is not easy to ask for or file for a divorce, it certainly is not easy to share the news with your children. Married Parents in California do not often think about what life would be like for everyone if the marriage ends; therefore, it is very new territory for families going through the divorce process.
With the divorce process comes many challenges and ups and downs. Nonetheless, there are ways parents can help make it easier on them and their children. No matter the age of your child, divorce can be very difficult, emotional and life altering. Thus, parents should consider strategies they could implement to better the process.
First, parents need to be open and honest, talking about the situation. Depending on their age, this could mean explaining the divorce process and what a post-divorce life could look like. Parents should also encourage communication. If a child is unsure or has questions, they should feel comfortable to ask. It is also important to reassure a child. You will be their parents no matter what; the divorce will not change that.
To aid with the coping process, parents need to be sure not to bad mouth each other, especially in front of their children. Kids should also be left out of disputes or matters that do not pertain to them. Additionally, parents should be flexible. It is a major change, and it will take time for kids to adjust to their new life. This also means allowing them to grieve. Divorce is hard on everyone; therefore, it is ok to ask for help. It is important to take the time to implement some self-care along the way. A child needs their parents to be in a good place so they can offer the care a child needs during this trying time.
Divorce isn’t an easy process to go through, and it can continue to be a challenging life event when children are involved. However, there are tools and mechanisms available to divorcing parents so they can develop the best p plan for their circumstances. Advice from a legal professional could help parents gain a full picture of their matter, helping them take the best approach for them and their children.
Source: Huffington Post, “ 9 Strategies To Help Your Children Cope With Divorce,” Vikki Ziegler, May 22, 2017
