Relationships can break down for a variety of reasons, as couples can grow apart or fall out of love. While a separation can be hard for both parties, it can be even more difficult when there are children involved.
As their parent, you will want to protect your children from heartache as much as possible, while helping them to quickly adjust to their new normal. To make the process easier, read the following advice on how to help your kids through a separation.
Talk to Your Children Together
Despite your personal feelings towards each other, you owe it to your kids to decide what you will tell them – and you must talk to them together about a separation. While you and your ex might be experiencing feelings of anger or sadness, you must maintain a united front. State that while you can no longer be together as a couple, you will continue to be there for them and that they have not influenced your decision.
Don’t Make Your Kids Take Sides
Speaking negatively about your ex-partner to your children might make them feel as if they must pick a side. It is important to show your ex some respect when talking to your kids, as they are their mother or father, and the words you use can affect them psychologically and emotionally.
Encourage Questions
It is likely that your children will be filled with many questions about a relationship breakdown. As the process can be both upsetting and confusing. You must encourage your kids to ask any questions they have, so you can provide them with the answers they need to accept the news and move forward.
Hire an Experienced Divorce Lawyer
The divorce lawyer you choose can determine whether the divorce proceedings are quick and painless or long and hard. It is, therefore, crucial to hire a qualified divorce lawyer who has experience in efficiently and effectively resolving family law disputes. For example, you should visit deannabowen.com to receive legal representation that will complement your specific needs.
Never Tolerate Bad Behavior
As a separation can be confusing for children, they might misbehave due to sadness or anger. They also might be craving attention from both parents. While you might be tempted to let their bad behavior slide due to guilt or sympathy, you shouldn’t tolerate it. If you fail to do so, they might believe they have a right to act disrespectfully, which is why you must discipline your son or daughter for their misbehavior.
Work Together with Your Ex
It is vital for you to put your personal feelings about your ex-partner aside to be there for your kids. To provide your children with the love, comfort and stability they need each day, you must open the lines of communication between you and your ex-spouse and you must never pass messages to each other via your son or daughter. You are both the adults in this situation, so you need to act like it to provide your kids with a happy childhood.
