Children thrive on consistency, which is why many take it so hard when their parents divorce. This major life change can make them feel uneasy and unstable. It’s up to the parents to help them feel better about what’s going on.
One of the best things you can do when you’re divorcing is to tell the children together. Presenting a united parenting front from the start can help them to feel more secure. It also lets them see that both parents will be there to support them despite the upheaval that’s going on.
Enlist help to keep an eye on the kids
Other adults who are involved with your children can provide valuable insight into how the kids are faring. Letting these adults, such as teachers and coaches, know about the divorce enables them to help the children as needed.
Keep conflict away from the kids
Children can sense the emotions of their parents. If you and your ex are constantly bickering or fighting, the children will likely become stressed, so keep heated discussions away from them. You may notice that their eating or sleep habits change. They may seem sullen or irritable. These are all signs of stress that you need to address so they have a chance to thrive.
Working as a parenting team to make decisions about your children is important, especially in the early days after the split. This is a time for you to get the parenting plan set, so there’s a roadmap for raising the kids. It may take creative solutions to get everything set up how it needs to be, so work with someone who can help you figure things out.