How to Help Your Children Cope With Divorce

Helping Children Adjust Through Their Parent’s Divorce

No one ever said that divorce would be easy, especially when children are involved. The end of a marriage can be incredibly confusing and stressful for kids, so parents must do everything to help their children cope. Read on to learn how you can help your child adjust to this new event in their life.

5 Healthy Coping Tips for Kids in a Divorce

If you’re currently going through a divorce or are about to, here are five tips on how to help your children cope:

1. Reiterate That Your Divorce is Not Their Fault

Children often think that something they did lead their parents to divorce. Help them understand that it’s something between mom and dad. Give them comfort to know there was nothing they could have said or done to cause their parents to get a divorce.

2. Reassure Them That They’re Loved

One of the biggest concerns for children during a divorce is whether or not both parents still love them. It’s important to reassure your children that they are loved and that nothing has changed in that regard. Let them know that both parents will still be involved in their lives and that they can come to either one of you with any concerns or problems.

3. Don’t Put Them In The Middle

Divorce can often be a very tense and emotional time for parents, and it’s easy to start taking out those feelings on our children. However, it’s important to remember that kids are not adults and should not be used as pawns in your divorce. Don’t put them in the middle by asking them to relay messages or take sides.

4. Encourage Them To Express Their Feelings

Kids can often feel many emotions during a divorce, such as sadness, anger, confusion, and fear. It’s essential to encourage them to express these feelings in a safe and healthy way. This may mean setting aside some time each day to talk about their feelings or providing them with a journal to write in.

5. Seek Outside Help If Needed

If you feel like your child is struggling to cope with the divorce, don’t hesitate to seek outside help. Many different resources are available, such as therapy, counseling, and support groups. These can be incredibly helpful in providing your child with the tools they need to cope with the divorce.

How to Get Legal Help When Considering a Divorce

When considering a divorce, it is vital to understand the legal process and what resources are available to you. A family law attorney can help you understand your rights and options and represent your best interests. Owenby Law, P.A. understands all facets of family law and can also offer guidance with child custody and visitation arrangements, property division, and support payments.

Contact Owenby Law, P.A. at (904) 770-3141 for a consultation today if you're ready to begin the divorce process.