Divorce can be hard on everyone involved. It can be especially tough on the children, more so if the parents are too overwhelmed by emotions to attend to the children’s needs.
To make divorce less painful to the kids, it is important that parents understand what is hurting their children about divorce and make conscious efforts to mitigate these issues. Here are three ways you can help your children cope with the divorce.
Assure the kids that they are not to blame for the divorce
It is not unusual for kids, especially younger ones, to think they have something to do with their parents’ divorce. This is definitely a horrible burden of guilt to shoulder.
It is important that you emphasize to your kids that the divorce was not their fault. Most important, assure them of your unwavering love especially during these emotional times.
Do not badmouth your partner in the presence of the kids
While some parents do it to either revenge or win the loyalty of their children, badmouthing your future ex, even in a subtle way, is never a good idea. Remember, little ears hear more than big ones!
Every child deserves to develop a healthy relationship with both parents. Never place your child on a spot where they have to see one parent as “good” and the other as “bad.” Besides hurting your children, badmouthing can also hurt your custody.
Come up with an agreeable parenting plan
Kids adjust differently to parenting styles and the last thing you want to engage in is an unending battle with the other parent on what you feel is right parenting.
Working together as a team, and in the best interest of your children, can ensure that you come up with a parenting plan that works for everyone involved while helping the kids cope with the aftermath of divorce.
Your kids are just as strong as you are. Learning how to help your kids cope with divorce can ensure that they overcome the emotions that come with this life event and maintain a healthy relationship with their parents, their siblings and friends.