Parents who are going through a divorce have to think carefully about what the children need during this trying time. It’s easy to think that the kids will easily adapt to what’s going on around them. This isn’t always the case.
Children sometimes have a difficult time adjusting. There are some rights that parents should ensure they uphold for their children during and after the divorce.
#1: Right to be a child
Your children should be children. They shouldn’t have to deal with adult problems. Never use the kids as a sounding board because they don’t need to know everything that’s going on. You should never use them as messengers because it’s best for you and your ex to speak one-on-one about problems.
#2: Right to speak about their emotions
All children should know that their feelings and emotions are normal. Speak to them about some of your emotions, but be sure that you do this in an age-appropriate manner. Some emotions are hard to deal with, so you’ll have to help them find productive ways to do this.
#3: Right to see their family members
The children have the right to continue to see their extended family members. It might take work from you and your ex to make this happen, but you should ensure that they have the opportunity to spend time with those relatives, even if it means having to change the parenting time schedule.
Children who are dealing with their parents’ divorce have a lot to worry about. They should know that they’ll have stability and love from both parents, no matter what’s going on. Having a solid parenting plan in place is one way that you can do this. It provides the foundation for them so they know what to expect with the new way of life.
