Going through a divorce can upend your world. If children are in the picture, then there is even more potential stress and emotional upheaval added to the situation. The most important thing you can do is let the children know they are loved and will be taken care. Here are five ideas for keeping kids comforted during divorce proceedings.
1. Work Out Your Schedules
The younger they are, the more full of questions they’ll be about what is going on. Usually, these questions will deal with practical matters to them such as who will be picking them up for school and when they will be able to see the other parent. It might help to resolve these issues with the counsel of experienced child custody lawyers in Greensboro NC. If you have these matters worked out between you and your spouse, then you’ll be able to provide the much-needed answers for your kids. That will alleviate a lot of their fears.
2. Give Your Child The Chance To Talk
If your child isn’t asking about the divorce, that doesn’t mean it isn’t on their mind. This is very complex issue for them to process and it will take time to work through all the issues. Every day could present a new thought for them to wrestle with. Make sure you check in with your kids and give them the opportunities to express what they are thinking.
3. Ask Them What They Need
In some cases, it could be a simple fix like additional visitation or attention. You might not always be able to provide what your child needs during the divorce, but at least you’ll know what they are thinking.
4. Be A Positive Role Model
You’ll want to inform your child’s teachers or daycare providers about the situation. Whenever possible, do this in front of the child. This will show them that there is nothing to be ashamed of about the divorce. This can also help them open up more.
5. Don’t Add To The Pressure
No child should be asked which parent they want to live with. That is too much pressure. This is an adult decision that you should make with your partner.
Through this entire process, you need to constantly remind your child that you’re all still a family. Just because the living situations have changed doesn’t mean there isn’t love to go around. There is still plenty they can depend on and to look forward to.