You may have heard the expression that “divorce is hardest on the kids.” Of course, there’s no way to accurately gauge the emotional toll on any family member. In addition, separation impacts all loved ones and even friends in very different ways.
Still, children often see life through a different lens. Divorce can seem confusing and even stressful. During this time, it’s not uncommon for your child or children to experience a wide range of emotion, including anger, guilt, depression, fear, anxiety, and more. Thankfully, there are ways you can help youth navigate your separation. Here are some of the most popular:
Plan and Prepare for Discussion
In most cases, divorce is not a surprise decision. Even if you or your partner were caught off guard by the desire of one or the other to separate, marriage counselors say signs of discontent are often prevalent long before thoughts of divorce present themselves.
While you certainly don’t want to worry children unnecessarily, when you and your partner have made the decision to separate, it’s important to include youth in appropriate age-related discussions about what exactly that means, and specifically how it will affect their immediate future.
Before you begin this process, however, it’s wise to consult with dynamic Daytona Beach divorce attorneys who can help you better understand all of the options available to you.
Keep Your Own Emotion in Check
No matter how many years you’ve been married, and on what terms you and your partner are separating, the end of a union can present an emotionally-charged scenario. However, it’s important to approach the needs of children from a neutral standpoint, keep their best interests in mind, and to not disparage the other parent to the child.
In addition, as the terms of your divorce are being finalized, it’s essential that both partners strictly adhere to any court orders concerning child time-sharing and visitation. If you need clarification on terms or potential outcomes, reach out to a lawyer in Daytona Beach who is well-versed with divorce and family law matters.
Implement and Adhere to Schedules
As you help children and youth cope with your separation, this can even be done online or through smartphone applications. The main idea is to keep to a minimum disruption in the normal daily schedules of youth.
Planning and preparing in this manner can be difficult, however, especially while you’re dealing with the stress and emotions that go along with divorce. That’s why it’s a good idea to team with Daytona Beach divorce lawyers who can provide valuable assistance through this often-confusing time.
Enlist Professional Assistance
As mentioned, children and youth will react to news of your separation differently. This is based on many factors, including age, maturity, and more. Some kids will remain silent, while others will have many questions. You may even decide to bring youth in for counseling or therapy sessions that could alleviate some of their concerns and reservations.
Don’t forget the benefit of professional advocacy that comes through partnering with Volusia County lawyers who care. Since 1983, we’ve assisted countless residents just like you with a variety of legal needs. Along with divorce and family law, our firm also specializes in business and corporate law, criminal defense, and more. Contact us today to move ahead with your divorce, and get the answers to your most pressing questions.
