How to Create Stability and Security for Children During and After Divorce
Divorce is a life-changing period of time that impacts adults and their children. As you navigate through this time of change, we encourage our clients to keep their child’s well-being at the forefront of all disputes. Children need reassurance that they are loved, safe, and not to blame for changes happening in their family.
Research conducted by the American Psychological Association shows that children fare best when they maintain strong relationships with both parents, provided there are no issues like abuse or neglect at home.
Remain Focused on Your Child’s Needs
Both parents should regularly remind their child that both parents love them. Reassuring children will help them feel comforted and safe. It’s important to allow your child to express their thoughts and what they are thinking about the situation. Creating an environment where your child feels supported emotionally, socially, and academically is key to minimizing any negative impacts of divorce.
Children Thrive on Routine
Consistency provides stability during a time of unrest. Children often thrive on routine because it helps them feel secure and gives them a sense of normalcy. Whether it’s school schedules, friend groups, hobbies or weekend activities, maintaining predictable patterns will help children adapt to their new family situation. Further, it’s a good idea to work with the other parent to establish smooth and predictable transitions between homes.
Flexible Parenting Plans
A parenting plan is a written agreement between parents which outlines each parent’s responsibilities and time allocations with their child after a divorce. The most effective parenting plans are both structured and flexible to accommodate the child’s needs as they grow older. For example, teenagers will have more autonomy than an elementary aged child because they are sharing their time between parents, friends, and extracurricular activities.
Parental Communication
Positive communication between parents is vital for co-parenting success. This includes language used towards ex-spouse in front of your child even when they are not present. While divorce is likely to put a strain on your relationship with your ex, focus on reducing conflict for the sake of your child’s well-being. We are not suggesting that you need to remain friendly, but do your best to avoid bringing up past grievances and foster a cooperative relationship. If you need extra assistance in this area, a co-parenting application may be helpful to streamline communication and reduce misunderstandings.
The Role of Divorce Lawyers
No one person goes through divorce alone. Divorce is overwhelming and takes an emotional toll and you don’t need to do it alone. A skilled Reno divorce lawyer helps with parenting plans, mediates disputes, and advocates for your child’s needs.
Our Reno family law firm is dedicated to empowering parents to build positive post-divorce outcomes. We have experience handling custody arrangements and child support to meet your family’s unique needs. With the right legal support, you can create a future where your child feels safe and secure. Contact us today for a consultation.
