Legally Speaking Military Focused Family Law Facts By Tana Landau, Esq.
HELPING KIDS COPE WITH DIVORCE Going through a divorce is never easy. It becomes even more difficult when children are involved. Children not only have to adjust from a one-household dynamic to a two-household dynamic, but they may also witness turmoil between their parents during the divorce process. Naturally, many parents worry how this will affect their children. There are several things you can do to protect your children’s emotional and psychological well-being during the divorce process. Many children will go through a roller coaster of emotions when they learn their parents are getting divorced. Some may see themselves as the reason for their parents’ divorce as kids tend to be “egocentric” and believe their actions or thoughts cause bad events.
It is important to let your children know that it is in no way their fault. Keep the line of communication open with them. Talk about the feelings that are natural under these circumstances. Let them know it is normal to feel sad or angry about a divorce. Your children should be able to talk freely with you about any fears or concerns they have. It is important not only that they can do so, but that they feel comfortable doing so.
Children also tend to keep their feelings inside because they don’t want to upset either parent, so it is always a good idea to check in with them frequently during the divorce process. If you have very young children or a child who tends to bottle up their emotions, it may be a good idea to get them to express their emotions through play. Children feel most comfortable while playing, so you can try role playing, drawing, or games.
One of the mistakes that you can make is to fail to validate your children’s emotions or demonstrate that you accept what they are feeling.
Reassure your children that they will always have your love and the other parent’s love. Do not ever talk badly about the other parent in front of your children.
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WWW.SanDiegoVeteransMagazine.com / APRIL 2022
