Divorce is an emotional time for everyone involved, especially the children who have to suddenly adjust to a completely new lifestyle with their parents living apart from one other. It’s important to spend plenty of time with your kids after the divorce is finalized and make sure they are emotionally stable so that they can get back to living a normal life.
The following are some ways you can help your children get through the divorce process:
- Never talk badly about your former partner in front of your kids. There’s likely going to be the temptation to badmouth the other parent, but remember — it’s extremely important for your children to be able to maintain a good relationship with both parents. Avoid putting your children in the middle of disputes between you and your former spouse.
- Be measured in the way you both praise and discipline your kids. Children need consistency and reliability, especially during such a turbulent time in their lives. Speak with your former spouse about how you can maintain this consistency.
- Consider looking into therapy for your kids both during and after the divorce. If you feel like you are an emotional wreck during the process, just imagine how hard it is on your children, who likely cannot completely grasp all that is happening.
- Encourage your children to be open with you about their feelings, and never judge them for being angry or frightened. It’s better to work through these sorts of issues than to let them fester.
If you could use the guidance of a skilled family law attorney as you approach your divorce, meet with the team at Appelhof, Pfeifer & Hart, P.A. in Minneapolis.