Whether you reside in Weston, Hollywood, Hallandale, Cooper City, or any of the cities in Florida it is important that you minimize the pain that a child suffers during your divorce. Many parents do anything and everything to avoid upsetting their child during the dissolution of their marriage in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. However, the best of intentions are often forgotten when a couple begins the process of a divorce in Broward County, Florida.
Key factors that affect a child’s ability to cope with their parents divorce are the quality of contact with both parents and the level of contact between them. During a divorce, you must provide a stable environment for your child at a time when, ironically, you may feel that you are least able to provide it.
The following are important tips how you can minimize the impact of a divorce on your child:
1. Manage your emotions and anger. Your child can know that this is a difficult time for you. Do not forget that strong emotions can scare your child.
2. Make sure your child knows that the world is a safe place where his or her needs will be met.
3. Do not blame your spouse. Your child must know that they can continue to have a great relationship with both of their parents.
4. Explain to your child that you are getting divorced together with your spouse.
5. Your child does not need to know the specifics of why you are getting divorced. However, your child does need to know that both of his or her parents are still committed to the child. Your child’s reaction to the news that you are getting divorced will vary depending upon their age and personality. For all children, there will be a huge sense of shock, confusion and anxiety. Your child may also be angry
6. Answer your child’s questions honestly and make sure that they know that they can approach you if and when they need to talk.
7. Reassure your child that the separation is not their fault and that you and your spouse will not stop loving them or leave them.
8. Provide your child with confidence about any new living arrangements.
9. Explain to your child that it is ok to keep loving both of their parents.
10. Understand that divorce is not a one-off event for a child but a decision that impacts them for the rest of their life. Reassurance needs to continue over many months and years.
11. Maintain routines and boundaries to minimize internal turmoil. Keep life the same as it has been with bedtimes, mealtimes, brushing teeth and going to school.
12. Accept changes in your child’s behavior as normal but support and encourage your child to get back on track.
13. Establish regular face to face contact and phone times. Also, e-mail and text your child on his or her cellular telephone.
14. Never let your child down by being late or cancelling your visitation and time-sharing. Many children are insecure about contact and access and may interpret this as rejection.
15. Become a co-operative parent for your child.
16. Keep in regular contact with your spouse to discuss co-parenting concerns and your parenting plan. Do not use your child as a messenger or go-between.
17. If you are not sure how to help your child during your divorce, make an appointment with a therapist.