Going through a divorce may cause you to become worried about your future relationship with your children. While a child can be deeply affected by divorce and may be angry or upset with one or both spouses for some time, it is the responsibility of each parent to ensure that they are able to support their children through this difficult time.
Even though your worst fear is that you will have a worse relationship with your child as a result of the divorce, the opposite could become true. You may be able to enjoy more quality time with your children and therefore build a better relationship with them. The following are some tips for building a better relationship with your children after divorce.
Have consistent contact
Consistency is key when it comes to bonding with your children and maintaining their trust, especially in uncertain times. Perhaps you want to start a routine where you call them at a certain time each day, or you let them know that you are always available to video call.
Make the focus your children
While you have many goals and worries in life, when you are with your children, they should be your one and only focus. Do things with them that are enjoyable and enriching for their development. Avoid talking badly about your ex or asking your children questions about their life. Your children want to know that they are your priority.
Ask and listen
It’s common for children to have worries that they do not readily share. Make sure that your child feels safe and secure enough to ask questions about the divorce, or other concerns that they have. It’s important that you ask them the important questions, and truly listen to them when they answer.
If you are going through a divorce and you’re also navigating child custody proceedings, it is important that you consider how you can take action to improve your relationship with your child.