Children will often take the divorce personally or feel that they played a role in the marriage ending. It is important that from the beginning you reassure your children that they did not cause the divorce. Additionally, you will want to reiterate that the issues were solely between the adults and that they are not to blame. Depending on the age of the children they may or may not have difficulty understanding the situtation. When the children are in your care it is important to not bad mouth the other parent.
Regardless of the personal issues between you and your ex it is important to leave the children out of the dispute. The best interests of the children are the most important. Your children will be dealing with the changes in their own way and it is important to not provide any additional stress. An excellent way to help keep the children's mind off of the divorce is to keep them active and involved in extra curricular activities. Keeping the children busy in a productive and constructive manner is a healthy coping mechanism.
Furthermore, everyone involved in the divorce and change in family structure will need time to adjust and adapt. It is important to be patient and not expect things to return to normal overnight. In time things will become easier and not be as confusing and stressful. Having a support group of friends and family will help lessen the uncertainty and lonliness that you may experience in these transitions.
Yanez & Associates provides information regarding divorce and family law matter in Orange County. For additional information or advice please contact the Family Law attorneys at 714-971-8000.