If you have had difficulty coping with divorce, imagine how hard it is on your kids. Life as they knew it is now forever changed, and they are going through a whirlwind of emotions which may include sadness, anger and feelings of confusion and loss. Helping kids with divorce must be a top priority for both parents and can even involve extended family including aunts, uncles and grandparents.
There are many ways to help your kids cope with divorce, but one of the first things you need to do is come to terms with your own emotions and deal with any guilt you may feel regarding the divorce. If one parent was the primary cause for the divorce (e.g. committed adultery), you both have to face that fact and work through all the anger, resentment, and bitterness you may feel. In order for you to help your kids deal with the divorce, you must be honest with yourself and recognize mistakes you’ve made in the past.
Give yourself credit, at least, for having the courage to end your marriage if it was a bad one that only caused grief and unrest in the home. Many people stay married thinking that they are doing right by the kids; but, children experience a great deal of anxiety when they live with parents who fight constantly. Children who live in a home filled with anger and insults will learn similar behaviors and the cycle of divorce may continue on for generations.
If you’re facing divorce and don’t know where to turn, please request a consultation with the legal experts at the Harris Law Firm.