Most Texas parents who are going through a divorce remain concerned about the well-being of their children and regard their relationship and continued communication as very important. No matter what the ages are of children when their parents split up, they usually become extremely vulnerable, especially when there is conflict over child custody. Regardless of who will have child custody, there are certain sensitivities that both parents may want to handle with care and understanding. There are sources of advice and assistance available through mediation to minimize the trauma.
It seems to be a natural reaction for a child of any age to find a reason to believe that they are responsible for the parents’ divorce. It is imperative that children are reassured that they are not at fault. The emotional effect a divorce has on children is just as intense and fluctuating as that of the parents, and the children need to understand that it will get better in time. However, if the mental state of a child causes concern, it may be wise to seek professional assistance to bring about acceptance.
It is advised that parents make it clear to children that, although their parents may now live separately, their love for their children has not diminished. It is important for parents to avoid prying or interfering with a child’s relationship with the other parent and allow a child to have his or her own special bond with each parent. Parents may also benefit from the services of a mediator. The insight of an objective third party may assist the parents in working out a parenting and visitation plan.
Once children realize that the new situation may be better for all, they may find acceptance and live a full and happy life, knowing that nothing has changed in the intensity of love between child and parents. In the event of parents divorcing in Texas, finding it difficult to agree on contentious issues, mediation may be the answer. Finding peaceful solutions to such problems like child custody may avoid any destructive consequences of attempting to solve issues through arguments.
Source: The Huffington Post, “10 Things All Divorcing Parents Should Say To Their Kids“, Sophie Rosen, April 2, 2014