Divorce is not only hard on the couple; it is hard on the children.
Your children will needs a lot of love and support to get through this stressful time, especially younger children who do not have the skills to verbally communicate their emotions. Younger children have the tendency to act out or become withdrawn as a result. Older children also experience much of the same behavior. In addition, they may feel that the parent who left the home may never return.
Your children need reassurance that both parents love them and that the divorce was not their fault. You can help your children by:
· Allow time to adjust to changes
· Listen to their feelings – be sensitive to their needs
· Do not force them to take sides
· Allow them to love both parents – no guilt trips
· Don’t make promises you cannot keep
· Never ask your children to deliver messages to your former spouse for you
Going through a divorce is an emotional roller coaster, especially when children are concerned. Many feel disappointment, anger and depression – not to mention confusion. It’s okay to listen to your family and friends and what they have to say, but what you really need is to hire an experienced Orange County Family Law attorney who you can trust and who will help you and your children get on with your lives.
