Divorce from A Different Perspective
The world is mysterious, yet fascinating place when we are young. We learn so much with each passing day, and yet there is always more to learn. The world is a simpler place for us when the complications of the working world are things we don’t have to concern ourselves with. The main source of our learning is? That would be the observations we make of the world around us. Many times, these observations center on our parents, the two main focal points of our young lives. We make assumptions based off of their interactions and reactions. This is why when our parents decide to separate; our very understanding of the world can be thrown into a frenzy.
Even as adults going through the divorce, it is a complex and disorienting affair. Only we have seen enough of the world to better understand it. Children are not so fortunate, and many times can take the entire scenario the wrong way. They can begin to blame themselves for their parent’s divorce, or blame one of the parents, regardless if it is a neutral separation. It is important for both sides to help children cope with the divorce. Otherwise the results could have both near and far reaching effects on their life.
Regardless if you are in just the beginning phases, or leaving the courthouse for the final time, these steps can help make the transition for your child as easy as possible.
Keep Legal and Emotional Conversations Private: Divorce is not always peaceful, and not always neutral. It is easy to get angry at your former spouse at times. Keep heated conversations and legal arrangements away from your child.
Stay Involved: Even if one side of the divorce wins majority time-sharing (formally known as primary custody), for the child’s sake, it is easier if both parents stay involved to some extent in their life. This can be emotionally difficult at times, but necessary all the same. This can include going to sporting or extracurricular events that the child is involved in.
Encourage Honesty: Many children can turn to isolation in times of distress. They may not be open about their thoughts or feelings about the divorce. Encourage them to be open with you so you can see how to best help them cope with their confusion.
Activities: It is crucial that a child maintain a connection to friends and family during this difficult time. Find ways to keep them actively engaged with their friends. This helps to supply a healthy distraction and give them support options. If your child enjoys going to church for example, encourage them to take part in extra activities. Encourage them to join a sport or club offered at the school.
Stay Healthy: This is important for both you and your child. Divorce causes stress, and stress causes negative effects on the mind and body. It can make you easily irritable, which doesn’t help you or your child.
Your children have an entire life ahead of them. The years you spend with them now will be the foundation for the rest of their life. Even in the hardest times, we have to be there for them, and teach them life lessons to take with them as they grow. Help make sure you can handle the home front during a divorce by hiring an one of the recommended family lawyer that Daytona Beach has to handle the legal aspects of it. Seek out an attorney like Lauren Koleilat of Koleilat & Miller, who practices a broad range of family law. Lauren Koleilat takes a professional and sensible approach to family law cases, with an understanding of the turmoil you may be experiencing. This way, you can handle both ends of the divorce proceedings with confidence.