Dealing with divorce in family is never easy. There are, however a few things that you can do to help make the process easier on your kids.
Four things to think about when helping your kids deal with your divorce.
Never talk bad about the other parent – There are so many things you could say to pit your kids against your ex, but that person will always be their parent. Don’t try to drive a wedge where these doesn’t have to be one. Some one can be a terrible spouse but still an okay parent. Always fight to protect your kids if your ex is harming them, but otherwise, let the kids learn to see what is true about the other parent for themselves, don’t add your own opinions of their other parent to the mix. Speaking with respect will mean a lot to your kids, even though it’s not easy to do in the moment.
Teach them healthy relationship skills – Boundaries and consent are two that should be at the top of this list of things to teach your kids. Since you won’t be able to know who all the come in contact with, these things should be addressed a lot earlier, and open forms of communication with you stressed. With young kids, you can approach this topic in a a non-scary way using resources like the book Your Body Belongs to You (affiliate).
Kelly @ IdealistMom.com says
Paula, I am divorced with shared custody of my eldest child, and I wholeheartedly stand behind these tips! Thank you for posting about this topic.
BFLC says
Great content and tips that every divorce couple can refer through. Divorce is hard but anyone can overcome it.