If you are planning for a divorce and you have children, the first thing that comes to your mind is how the separation will affect your child. In most cases, divorce impacts the child emotionally, mentally, and physically. The children might feel angry, sad, frustrated, and guilty. This is a sensitive matter for children that has to be handled with care. Therefore, it is better to not handle such matters on your own but hire a child custody lawyer adept in family law. They will guide you with the best child custody arrangement that will reduce the negative impact on your kids. So, now go and search for the ‘best child custody lawyer near me‘ on Google.
Tips to reduce the impact of your divorce on the kids:-
Plan how to break the news: When you plan to break the news of the divorce, do it with extreme care. It is best if both the partners plan together on what to say to the child and what not to do. This will give the child clarity to process this news. Both parents need to be honest and try not to hide important facts from them. Based on their age, you should take your call on what to say.
Assure them that they are not the cause of divorce: One of the common psychological impacts of divorce on children is that they start blaming themselves for the separation. They feel guilt and anguish after hearing the news. However, both parents must assure them that they are not the cause of the divorce and there is nothing that they could have done to save the marriage.
Encourage children to talk about their feelings: Some children during such events might try to suppress their feelings of anger, grief, resentment, and sadness. As parents, you must encourage them to talk openly about their fears and concerns. Pay attention to what they have to say and be patient when dealing with their emotions. Unlike adults, children might take more time to get used to the idea of divorce.
Do not speak negatively about the other parent: Children love both parents equally. Seeing one parent talk negatively about the other can stir feelings of grief and sadness in them. This might affect them deeply. Never talk ill about the other parent or blame them in front of the child.
Divorce can be confusing and traumatic for children. In many cases, they end up blaming themselves for the divorce and succumbing to feelings of guilt. Such psychological effects can also be taken care of by taking your child to a therapist. This will ensure their mental, emotional, and physical well-being.