Going through a divorce can be hard, even more so when you have children. During this period it can be difficult for your child to understand what’s going on and process their emotions in the right way. You must consider how the divorce is going to affect them and do all that you can to help them through this time by making their well-being a top priority.
In this blog, we explain some top tips for helping your child through your divorce.
Be open
You should only tell your children about your divorce once the process as it can be very confusing if it doesn’t go through. Be as open as you can while bearing in mind the age and maturity of your child. Try to explain things in a child-friendly way to make a point of explaining that the situation is not their fault. Openness will ensure that your child does not feel like they are being overlooked or out of the loop – this will also help maintain good communication.
Keep a routine
With all the change that surrounds divorce, if you can keep a good routine then you should. Don’t cancel things like after school clubs and other activities as this could create a feeling of instability. Establishing structure does not mean having a rigid structure, it’s more about being consistent and calm. Not only can this put your child’s mind at ease but often a hectic and ever-changing lifestyle equals a confused and fragmented mindset.
Look out for red flags
During a divorce or other periods of emotional change, children often express their emotions through their behaviour. It’s very normal to notice a change in your child, however, this can also progress into more serious problems. Encourage your child to talk about how they feel, as bottling everything up it can show itself in other ways. Always discuss any concerns with their teacher, doctor and of course them, so you can find a solution and support their needs.
Here at Richard and Lewis, based in South Wales, we have a team of professional solicitors who specialise in divorce and child law proceedings. If you’re looking for an experienced solicitor who can work on your divorce case and childcare plans, we can help. Get in touch today for more information.