Divorce is a difficult and emotional experience for both parents and children. As a parent, it can be challenging to help a child deal with the changes that accompany a divorce. However, there are ways to ensure that your child is able to cope and even thrive in the wake of a divorce. Through communication, understanding, and support, parents can help their children deal with divorce, manage the complex emotions of it and learn to adjust to the new family dynamics. With the right guidance, children can emerge from a divorce with a sense of security, resilience, and self-confidence.
What to Expect
A divorce is a complicated process, and it can be especially challenging for children. It can take time to reach a point where you can see the light at the end of the tunnel. There are many different stages involved in the process of divorce, and each one can bring with it different challenges and emotions. During the early stages, you and your spouse may be in the process of determining whether or not you want to go ahead with a divorce. This uncertainty can be a chaotic and stressful time for you and your children. You may find that your children are acting out more often and expressing their emotions in ways that may be difficult to manage. As the divorce progresses, more logistical issues and new challenges may be ahead.
Talking about Divorce
When you and your spouse decide to divorce, the first thing you’ll need to decide is how to talk to your children about the impending divorce. Communicating with your spouse is the best way before talking to your children about divorce. It is often best to work out your feelings and have a better idea of what you will say before talking to your children. Telling your children that you are getting a divorce can be very difficult, and you may want to consider doing this with your spouse/partner.
Promoting Communication
Many parents make the mistake of thinking that simply talking about the divorce and their feelings will be enough for their children. However, what children need the most is the reassurance that both of their parents love them and are still there for them. Both parents should want to make sure that they are showing their children love and attention. Parents can do this by actively engaging their children in activities and showing them they care.
Coping with Emotions
Children are less likely to become resentful and angry if they have a healthy outlet for their emotions. If a child is sad or angry, the best thing parents can do is help their child work through those emotions. Various activities such as play therapy, art therapy, and journaling can be helpful ways for children to cope with their feelings about their parent’s divorce. Seeing a family therapist also benefits children learning to deal with divorce.
Creating a Positive Environment
No matter how well you manage your child’s emotions, you can’t control everything in their life. However, you can create a positive parenting environment by ensuring that your child is surrounded by positivity and love. Allow your child to voice their fears, concerns, and feelings. Parents can facilitate this by actively listening to and acknowledging their child’s feelings.
Creating a Stable Environment
If your child has voiced doubts about their importance in the family, it is essential to reassure them that they are your number one priority. Children with both parents being active in their lives tend to deal with divorce better. Kids thrive when they live in a stable and loving environment. Both parents can take measures to ensure their child feels like they belong in each household.
Keeping Healthy
It is important to remember that you are a role model for your child. Parents who don’t take care of themselves are more likely to experience burnout and are less likely to be able to give their children the support they need. Keeping yourself healthy involves more than a nutritious diet and exercise. Talking to a therapist can be helpful to parents when going through a divorce. A therapist can help you manage your emotions and keep them from negatively affecting your child.
An Experienced Family Law Attorney Can Help
The attorneys at Lecour Family Law can help you navigate complex and stressful family legal issues, including divorce, child custody, and child support. Call us today at 636-685-0440 to schedule a consultation. We pride ourselves on offering family legal services tailored to your specific needs.
Lecour Family Law is located at 1270 Jungermann Road in St. Peters, Missouri. We serve clients throughout St. Charles, O’Fallon, Troy, Warrenton, and St. Louis.