Going through a divorce is a challenging experience. Unfortunately, it can be especially difficult for children caught in the middle.
While there is no one-size-fits-all solution to minimize their pain, here are 9 (nine) golden rules that can help lessen the effects of divorce on children.
- Keep communication open and honest with your child about the divorce process. Let them know what to expect and how it may affect them. It’s important to emphasize that the divorce is not their fault and that both parents still love them.
- Ensure your child has access to both parents as much as possible, allowing them to maintain security and stability during an otherwise difficult time. If you have joint custody, maintain a consistent schedule, so they know when to expect to see each parent.
- Put your child’s needs first above any other concerns you may have regarding the details of your divorce settlement or disagreements between you and your ex-spouse over parenting decisions. Try not to argue in front of your children if possible; this can only add more stress to their already stressful situation.
- Acknowledge and validate their feelings throughout the entire process, regardless of how young or old they are; even if you disagree with them, letting them know that you understand will help reduce their anxiety considerably.
- If possible, encourage both parents to attend school or extracurricular activities together so that the child knows they still have two involved parents in their life despite the separation between mom and dad.
- Make sure plenty of support is available for parents and children during this challenging time by using resources like counseling sessions or support groups to provide additional assistance when needed.
- Spend quality time with your kids doing things they enjoy to feel loved and cared for despite all the changes around them.
- Be patient when it comes to any behaviour problems your child might present due to the stress caused by the divorce; try not to take out any frustration on them (or yourself) as it could make matters worse.
- Lastly, remember that no matter what happens during this time, you always have a choice in handling it – choose love!
Divorce is never easy, but following these 9 (nine) golden rules can help minimize its effects on children by providing stability, support, and understanding throughout this trying period in their lives – which is ultimately what every child needs most from their parents during such a difficult transition!
Taking these steps won’t guarantee a smooth road ahead. Still, they will undoubtedly go a long way in helping ensure that everyone involved gets through it intact – mentally, emotionally, and physically – while minimizing any potential damage along the way!
Read More: Divorce in Singapore
