When you begin the process of divorce, it is natural to worry how the kids will feel about it. You may believe since stress and the escalating emotions of divorce are gripping you, it must also be affecting the children. The good news is research shows that with just a little effort on your part, kids have a good chance of being just fine over time.
The initial reaction from your children may be very emotional for both you and them. Keeping your marriage together is not what matters most for the well-being and development of your children. It is having parents who continue to show them love and support. Resist the urge to be angry or fight with your spouse when the children are present.
Here are things to keep in mind to help you and your children while you are moving through your divorce:
- It is important that both parents can still get along. If problems arise, do not bad mouth the other parent in front of the children, as they do much better when they continue to have good and positive relationships with both parents.
- Make sure you are still parenting by providing love, showing fair discipline and just being there for the kids.
- During the difficult time of divorce, support your children by answering all their questions and speaking to them clearly about what is going on and the implications.
When going through a divorce, keep in mind how you can consistently provide loving and happy moments for your children – even when those are not the most prevalent emotions in your current mind.
The process of a divorce is to end a marriage, but being a parent never goes away. Keep demonstrating your love and support to your children even during the most challenging times.
