Ask anyone who has been through a divorce and chances are the response will be that the experience was anything but easy. However, when kids are involved, a divorce often becomes even more challenging. A marital breakup can be traumatic and overwhelming for children. Sometimes, children will even blame themselves when their parents divorce. Here are some ways parents in Illinois can help their children adjust to this often chaotic period in their lives.
Stay involved
Children want both parents to be involved in their lives and may feel unimportant or unloved when a parent does not make time for them. Parents who divorce should be sure to set aside time in their schedules to spend quality one-on-one time with their kids. Most importantly, make sure the children know they are loved.
Don’t talk bad about the other parent
After a difficult divorce, it may be tempting to say negative things or vent to the children about the other parent. Always avoid this. Saying derogatory things about the other parent can force children to feel like they must take sides.
Be honest
Children deserve to know the truth about why their parents are getting divorced. Be honest with the kids about why things happened the way they did, but simplify it. Also, it is helpful if parents explain this to the children together, if possible. Explain to them the changes that may be happening with living arrangements, school routines and other activities.
Although parents may be separated, a concern they still share is the safety and well-being of their children. For parents in Illinois who need help or have questions about parenting or child custody, speaking with a trusted legal representative can be critical. An experienced family law attorney can provide guidance and help parents create a suitable child custody arrangement.