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Blog 2018 August How to Help Your Kids Cope with Divorce
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How to Help Your Kids Cope with Divorce

Posted By Law Office of Kathryn Marteeny || 21-Aug-2018

Going through a divorce is difficult, especially for your kids. For them, a divorce can feel like a devastating tragedy. They experience the loss of a parent, the loss of the family unit, or the loss of the life they once knew.

Fortunately, you and the other parent can help your children cope and adjust to the new circumstances in a number of ways. Not only can this make the divorce process a little easier for your kids, they can even become mentally and emotionally stronger once it is finalized.

The following are several ways to help your children cope with divorce:

  • Encourage them to voice their opinions - The news of divorce can make them feel sad, angry, frustrated, and confused about the entire ordeal. Encourage your children to share their feelings and listen to them. Your kids need to understand that their feelings and honesty are also valid and they what they say will be taken seriously.
  • Help them put their feelings into words - If you notice a change in how your children normally act or any signs of misbehavior, it is often an indication they are feeling angry or sad. It is normal for children to experience difficulties in expressing how they truly feel, so try to encourage them to verbally express their feelings.
  • Validate their feelings - If you cannot turn their moods around or fix their problems, it is best to simply acknowledge their feelings instead of dismissing them. Tell your children you understand what they’re going through and let them know it’s perfectly normal to feel sad or angry before you start suggesting ways to make it all better.
  • Give your kids ample advance notice prior to a parent moving out - Give your children the opportunity to visit the second home and know where they will sleep when they visit. Perhaps they can help furnish the place and bring over some possessions. Doing all of this can help them transition into their new lives.
  • Establish new rituals - This is especially true during the holidays and celebrations of special events, such as birthdays, look for fun activities that are different from the normal traditions you and your family shared. This can be a great way to encourage building, or rebuilding, relationships.
  • Be civil - It may seem like a monumental task to cooperate with your soon-to-be-ex-spouse, but you need to successfully co-parent for the benefit of your children. While your marriage together is coming to an end, you will always be parents to your children, which means you will always have to maintain constant communication with each other and cooperate. So avoid expressing bitterness and resentment toward each other in front of the children. Showing that you two are a united front will help your children effectively deal with the divorce and the change in the family unit.
  • Stay healthy - Divorce is extremely stressful, which is why it is important to manage your own stress for you and your family’s sake. Keeping yourself physically and emotionally healthy can help you better deal with stress and help your kids effectively cope with their stress as well.

For more information about divorce in Texas, contact our Houston family law attorney at the Law Office of Kathryn Marteeny today.

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