A divorce can be a stressful and traumatic time for both parents and children in Florida. While it may not be possible for things to ever return to how they were before, there are ways to help children to cope and be better able to understand and handle the significant change in life circumstances.
During the divorce
Kids Health points out that it is a good idea for parents to wait until they have solidified the plan of separation before telling the kids. When doing so, it is important to make sure that the children do not believe that they are the reason why the divorce is happening.
To minimize stress to the kids, parents should keep heated arguments and blaming to a private setting. If possible, alterations to the children’s daily lives should be minimized.
After the divorce
According to Psychology Today, kids can sometimes act out after a divorce. It is important if this happens to maintain a supportive environment for them, and allow them the time and resources to heal.
Communication is essential in any stressful situation, and if possible, both parents should be able to talk honestly with children about the emotions they are going through. If someone has difficulty talking through this sensitive subject matter, it may be a good idea to schedule some individual or group therapy sessions.
It is also important for kids to know that they will still get to see both parents, and it may be helpful to show them the schedule of visitation. Parents should make sure that children understand they still have the love of both parents, even though the marriage itself did not work out.
