Helping Your Children Cope Post-Divorce

You may think that springing the news of an impending divorce on your children is the most difficult thing you can do, but helping them cope afterward can be just as difficult. Because many parents spend the aftermath of a divorce coping with their own emotions, considering the way the kids are dealing can be an afterthought.

The number one key to helping children process their hurt is to take their culpability out of the picture. Kids often think they had something to do with the break-up, so showing them that it is not their fault is paramount to untangling the messy knot of emotions. Almost as important is establishing how the child’s relationship with each parent will be better going forward. Whether the positives mean less stress at home from overheard arguments or more attention from each parent who no longer needs to worry about pleasing the other, divorce should always result in a better environment for the child. Finally, be sure that your children know that, while many things are about to change, your love and your ex-spouse’s love will stay constant.

Patience with your children and with yourself will be your biggest help through this volatile time. Children will need to process these emotions just like you have, so let them.

If you are going through a divorce with children in the picture, it’s important to make the process as smooth as possible. The Huntsville family lawyers of New Beginnings Family Law are available for a consultation today.