We’ve all heard that half of all marriages end in divorce, but the modern statistic is actually closer to 25%.
Although this news is reassuring, these numbers are still high. Divorce is never easy, but splitting up is even more challenging with kids.
Want to learn how to lessen the effects of divorce on children? Keep reading for some helpful tips.
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How to Explain Divorce to a Child
When children learn about divorce, their first instinct may be to blame themselves. In order to prevent these doubts, you need to break the news as gently as possible. When you’re finished explaining the situation in a way that they can understand, encourage them to ask questions if they have any.
During this conversation, both parents shouldn’t try to make the other look bad. Your priority is to prepare your child for these upcoming changes and reassure them that both of you love them.
How to Help a Child Deal with Divorce
Even if you’re careful about breaking the bad news, it’s normal for your child to have a lot of negative feelings toward both parents. Since parents are the usual go-to confidant, your child may feel isolated. Hiring a therapist can give your child a safe person to help them work their thoughts and feelings out.
During this transitional period, it’s important to put extra energy into showing your child how much you love them. Make sure both of you say and do lots of kind things. If you put on a brave face, you’ll give them more confidence that everything will be okay and that this divorce is for the best.
Understanding the Emotional and Physical Effects of Divorce on a Child
Since divorce can be earth-shattering news for a child, you can expect to see some changes in their behaviors. Children of divorced parents are more likely to get distracted in school, have negative thoughts, and struggle with socializing.
Your job as a parent is to keep a close on your child to make sure they’re not isolating themselves. The best thing you can do to help your child feel more secure is to help them stick with their usual routine to establish some normalcy.
How to Prevent Traumatizing Effects of Divorce on Children: Keep Them Out of Custody Battles
Before the legal process can begin, it’s crucial that you find the right divorce lawyer for you and your family’s needs.
One of the most traumatizing experiences a child can endure during a divorce is a custody battle. Keeping them out of the courtroom is the ideal situation. In order to do this, you need a lawyer who is good at mediating with your partner and their lawyer.
Your goal should be to establish a custody schedule that satisfies both parties without the need of a judge or your child’s testimony. Before you begin negotiations, make sure you understand different custody arrangements so you can better navigate this emotional situation.
Want More Relationship Advice?
Now that you know how to reduce the effects of divorce on children, you can ensure your family stays strong throughout these difficult times.
For more helpful relationship advice, be sure to check out our blog.