Helping your children navigate divorcing parents

Divorce can be a challenging time for children, and they will need support and understanding to navigate through it. Remember that your children are going through a time of significant change. They will struggle and need your love during this time.

Here are some tips to help kids through a divorce:

Open and honest communication: Talk with your children in an age-appropriate manner about divorce. Reassure them that it’s not their fault and answer any questions they might have.
Emotional Support: Provide safe space for your children to express their feelings. Validate their emotions and let them know it’s okay to feel angry, sad or confused.
Maintain Routines: Stability can be reassuring for children during times of change. Try to keep routines consistent, such as regular mealtimes, bedtimes and extracurricular activities.
Unified parenting: Work together with the other party to maintain a cooperative co-parenting relationship. Consistent rules and expectations in both households can provide a sense of security for your children.
Seek professional help if needed: If your children are struggling to cope with their divorcing parents, consider seeking guidance from a family therapist or counselor who specializes in helping children through these transitions. Should you need a referral, feel free to call our office and we can help.
Limit your child’s exposure to conflict: Shield your children from any ongoing conflicts between you and your spouse. Do not use your children as messengers or involve them in adult issues, including your divorce proceedings.
Foster a positive environment: Encourage parents to be supportive of each other's role and reinforce the importance of maintaining a healthy relationship with both parents. Let children know they still have a loving and caring family, even if it looks different now.

Remember that every child is unique, and their response to divorce may vary. It’s crucial to be patient, understanding, and provide the necessary support they need as they adapt to the changes in their family structure.