How To Help Children Through Divorce
Going through their parents’ divorce is one of the most challenging experiences children are likely to face. The changes in the home and in their relationship with both you and your former partner can cause them to act out, or to become isolated while keeping their feelings to themselves. As an experienced South Carolina family law attorney, we have helped countless clients get through similar situations. With plenty of love and support, your children can get through this time. Here are some tips on how to help children through divorce.
Helping Children Cope With Divorce
In addition to addressing child custody, there are other areas where your support can help your child adjust better to the situation. Kids Health advises that the reaction your child is likely to have depends on their age, temperament, and the exact circumstances involved. They recommend the following tips to help children cope with divorce:
Acknowledge your child’s feelings about the divorce, and encourage them to share their fears and concerns.
Assure them that they are not responsible for the divorce, while not going into too many details about why your marriage failed.
Avoid blaming your former spouse for the situation or bad mouthing them in front of your children.
Resist the temptation to use custody issues as a way of getting back at your former partner.
Try to keep to a regular schedule with your children, as much as possible.
Work on establishing new family traditions, while incorporating some of their favorite elements from the past.
Reassure them that while this is a difficult time, you will get through it together.
Make Child Custody Arrangements That Work For Your Family
One of the most important areas to address for parents going through a divorce are the custody arrangements for their children. Under the South Carolina Children’s Code, there are several options that may be available, depending on your situation:
Primary custody, in which one parent is the primary caregiver, while the other has visitation rights
Joint parenting, in which the child’s time is divided somewhat equally between both parents homes
Sole custody, in which visitation with the other parent is limited, generally in cases involving domestic violence or behaviors like alcohol or drug abuse, which could put the child in jeopardy
When possible, joint parenting arrangements are encouraged, with schedules outlined through a parenting plan. Areas to address include the amount of time the child will spend with each parent, the parent’s rights in terms of making decisions on the child’s behalf, their level of involvement in the child’s school and recreational events, and arrangements regarding transportation, communication, and other important details.
Contact Us Today For Help
While you help guide your child through divorce, our Aiken family law attorney can work with you to help ensure your rights and interests as a parent are protected. Contact the Surasky Law Firm, LLC today, and request a consultation to discuss your situation and the best course of action in your case.
