3 Tips to Help Minimize the Impact of Divorce on Your Children

 Posted on October 09, 2019 in Divorce

When you have children, it changes your entire life. You put their wants and needs before your own much of the time, and you always want what is best for them. This is why many couples try to “stay together for the kids” even if they are not happy in their relationship. While this may seem like a good idea, studies have shown that staying in an unhappy marriage for the sake of the children actually does more harm than good. Children who grow up in unhappy households tend to have more problems than children whose parents got divorced. While it is true that a divorce can affect the children, there are things you can do to help protect your kids as you and your spouse separate from each other.

Take Your Fighting Elsewhere

Most people do not plan to have an argument, and disagreements or fights often happen in the heat of the moment. With that being said, it is important to avoid fighting in front of your children if you can help it. Studies have shown that children who are exposed to their parents’ constant fighting tend to have more behavioral and/or emotional issues. If you and your spouse have an issue you need to resolve, make sure you do it out of earshot of the children.

Keep Your Thoughts About Your Ex to Yourself

If you are going through a divorce, chances are you and your ex do not see eye-to-eye on things. You may have some feelings of annoyance, anger, or resentment toward them. Whatever your feelings toward your ex, it is important that you do not speak negatively about your ex around your children. This may make them feel like they will have to take sides during the divorce, which is not fair to them.

Make Sure Your Children Spend Time With Both of You

Children deserve to have both parents play an active role in their lives. You should do everything in your power to ensure your children have access to both you and your spouse whenever they want. Never use your children as a weapon to hurt or get back at your spouse, and never make your children choose between the two of you.

Contact a Mokena, IL Divorce Lawyer Today

Every parent only wants what is best for their children, and while it may not seem like it at the time, a divorce can be the best thing for the entire family in some situations. It is important to remember that children are resilient and can adapt to change fairly easily. At Wakenight & Associates, P.C., we understand the impact a divorce can have on everyone in the family. Our Will County divorce attorneys can help make sure the process goes smoothly. To schedule a free consultation, call us today at 815-727-6144.

Sources:

https://www.huffpost.com/entry/5-ways-to-protect-childre_b_4326799

https://childmind.org/article/dont-let-your-kids-be-casualties-of-divorce/

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/helping-kids-cope/201707/protecting-kids-divorce-tug-wars-10-golden-rules