A divorce can impact children, so it is helpful to consider their emotional needs and well-being throughout the process. Different children handle challenging experiences differently, so there is no single correct way to comfort or support your children. You can, however, make good progress by keeping the following in mind.
Forcing your kids to choose rarely ends well
When it’s time to determine who gets custody, you may feel like asking your children to take either your side or your spouse’s. Worse, some parents may even disparage their ex to help their kids decide.
Unfortunately, these tactics can exacerbate an already stressful situation and cause chronic health issues in your children. Your kids may also develop severe loyalty conflicts and alienate you or your ex altogether.
Communication goes a long way
As an adult, you likely have years of experience dealing with many negative emotions. Your children do not. Encourage them to discuss their feelings and opinions with you, especially about the situation.
You should never neglect yourself
Your children will turn to you for comfort and a sense of stability and normalcy. Therefore, you must take care of your health so that you remain strong and able to be there for your kids when they need you the most.
Consider alternative options to litigation
Some think dissolving marriages always entails messy court cases and custody battles, but this isn’t necessarily true. You and your spouse can explore more amicable approaches to divorce that might be less costly and less stressful to your children.
Regardless of why you and your partner decided to end your marriage, you must never forget that the process can be just as unpleasant for your children. Making sure your kids feel loved, secure, and supported can help them come to terms with the situation.