When a couple decides to dissolve their marriage, it can be incredibly stressful and sad for their children. Unfortunately, children often feel that their world has been turned upside down. Fortunately, there are several ways that parents can minimize tension between themselves and their former spouse to help their children learn to cope and adjust to their new circumstances. If you are seeking a divorce, contact a skilled Rockland County Divorce & Separation Attorney who can help you reach favorable divorce terms that protect your children’s best interests. Keep reading to learn how you can help your children cope with divorce.
How does a divorce affect children?
For children, divorce can be particularly challenging. Children often struggle to adapt to the changes in their life. They often feel confused and uncertain about how to cope, which can result in severe behavior issues. Children tend to blame themselves for the divorce, believing they did something to cause it. This emotional conflict can lead to mental health problems such as anxiety, depression, and cognitive dissonance, affecting their overall well-being. To ensure your children can effectively manage the stress of divorce and find healthy outlets to cope, you must be willing to prioritize the best interests of your children when co-parenting.
How can I help my child cope?
One of the most effective ways you can help your child cope with divorce is by staying involved in their life. If you do not make time for your child, they will have a more challenging time adjusting to these unfamiliar circumstances. To ensure your child feels important and knows how much you love them, schedule quality time with them as much as possible. You should be supportive when your former spouse spends time with your children. Encouraging your children to enjoy spending time with their parents is essential, as children benefit from having a relationship with both parents. You should refrain from saying anything negative about your former spouse in front of them, as you may inadvertently push your child to take sides.
Furthermore, you should communicate with your co-parent. Although tensions may run high, working with your former spouse to plan how you will relay information to your child about the changes they will face is imperative. Despite divorce changing their family structure, if you keep routines intact, it will help establish consistency. Children need some sense of stability to help them adjust. If you believe your child is too overwhelmed by these circumstances, they may benefit from counseling. Professional help can help children find healthy outlets to cope and transition to their new life.
If a divorce is imminent, contact a dedicated attorney from The Law Office of Peter L. Jameson, PLLC, today. Our firm is committed to helping our clients protect their children.
