Even with divorce rates beginning to stabilize, millions of parents continue to wonder what they can do to limit the negative impact that this major life event has on their children. If you are currently going through a divorce or just now considering it as an option, then take a look at these steps that may help you minimize how your breakup is going to affect your children in the coming years.
Keep Them Away from Arguments
For most families, arguments and verbal confrontations are what the kids are likely to experience. Keeping them far away from heated debates between you and your ex is absolutely vital to their emotional well-being. Parents should never “bad mouth” one another in front of the children as it will taint their view of both parents.
Establish New Traditions
One great way to reduce the shock that children might go through is to find a balance between old and new traditions. This can be something as simple as heading to the park on Sundays or making a meal together once a week. These traditions will restore a sense of normalcy to your child’s daily life as well as your own.
Get the Extended Family Involved
Getting extended family members involved can be quite beneficial, but it must be done the right way. If extended family members are prone to putting your ex down, then you should ask them to keep those opinions far away from the children. In the right circumstances, however, your extended family could provide you and your kids with an excellent support system.
Remove Them from Violent Situations
As a parent, your number one priority is keeping your children out of any violent situations. If your spouse has become violent, you must immediately get your children to a safe location, contact the police, and then find a domestic violence lawyer from Coillaw.com or a firm in your area.
Continue to Co-Parent
You and your ex-spouse should make every effort to continue co-parenting and remain a (relatively) united front. Children are quite adept at realizing when their parents are at odds, and they will often use this information to pit their parents against one another. Rules, daily habits, and expectations should remain consistent in each household.
Divorces are difficult for children of any age, and it is up to the parents to protect and support their kids through this tumultuous process as they cope with major changes to their life.
Anica is a professional content and copywriter who graduated from the University of San Francisco. She loves dogs, the ocean, and anything outdoor-related. She was raised in a big family, so she’s used to putting things to a vote. Also, cartwheels are her specialty. You can connect with Anica here.