When Florida couples consider divorce, they may wonder how the separation will affect their children. Parental actions can play a major role in easing the transition for kids. When parents are sensitive to their children’s needs and prioritize their emotional well-being throughout the divorce process, positive outcomes are far more likely.
Divorce is a time of change, so maintaining some form of routine and consistency can help kids feel supported and safe. It is best for parents to work together to agree on some primary expectations around chores, grades and behavior. While children can be disconcerted when they face strongly different environments in both of their parents’ homes, guidelines can give them a sense of stability. Parents may disagree with their former partners, but it’s still important to demonstrate unity. Of course, this is not the case if the disagreement involves abuse, neglect or another unhealthy form of emotional control.
In addition, kids can feel like the issues brought up in the divorce are their fault. They may worry that their own behavior in some way led to their parents’ split. Parents can help to alleviate this sense of guilt by reassuring their children that they are not the cause of the divorce and that both of their parents love them. This does not mean revealing details; kids can feel caught in the middle if their parents confide excessively about marital problems.
Many people may also worry about losing time with their children after the divorce. A family law attorney can help a divorcing parent deal with issues such as child custody and child support.