Divorce is a challenging experience for families to endure, especially when young children are involved. It is your duty as a parent to help them cope with this life-altering event, so they can develop the healthy coping mechanisms they need to continue to grow and thrive. We compiled a list of tips that can help set you on the right path.
Getting Your Children Through a Difficult Time
After you tell your children about the divorce, they may have a whole range of emotional reactions to the news. They may be angry, depressed, or afraid. It is important for you to let them know that these feelings are all valid and completely normal.
That said, not all children will react right away or even in the next few weeks. Let them know that it is okay if they have nothing to say yet and that you will be ready when they are to talk about it.
When your children are ready to talk, these are some of the questions they may have:
- Which parent will I live with?
- Will I still go to the same school?
- Will I still see all of my friends?
- Who will I spend the holidays with?
If you are still in the early stages of your divorce, you may not have the answers to these questions yet, so be honest with them if you are unsure of the future at this point.
Here are some tips for how you can help your kids cope with the divorce:
- Encourage your children to be honest about their feelings. They need to know that what they feel and think about the situation will be heard and taken seriously.
- Some kids may not know how to articulate what they are feeling, so listen to your children, and help them put their thoughts into words.
- There are certain details, such as the reasons why your marriage failed, that your children do not need to know. Sharing these details will only hurt them, so try to keep them to yourself.
- Get the help you need by finding a support group or a therapist. Taking care of your own emotional wellbeing will help you become a stronger source of support for your children.
Reach Out to Our Knowledgeable Family Law Attorney for a Case Evaluation Today!
If your marriage is ending, now is the time to contact an experienced legal professional to handle your case. At Kay Polk, Attorney at Law, our legal team is prepared to guide you through every step of your case and will fight tirelessly on your behalf to protect your interests.
Call our law firm today at (713) 234-6260 to request a consultation.
