Monday, November 3, 2008

Helping Children Cope With Divorce

By Carol Cavanaugh

We live in a time when the divorce rate still hovers at approximately 40-50% for most first marriages. It is these first marriages that are the most likely to produce children, hence the need for both parents to make the emotional and psychological needs of their children a priority.

One of the first things parents must acknowledge is that their children are far more aware of marital problems than they may give them credit for. Many times arguments are accidentally overheard, and a lack of harmony between mom and dad is all too easy to spot. Lack of physical affection, strained conversations, and the absence of a parent are things that only a young baby is likely to miss. Parents need to communicate with their children once they decide to separate, and let them know that it's okay to ask questions.

Once the divorce is granted then both parents must work together to make sure that the kids are given lot of unconditional love by both the parents. Many kids tend to think and act as if they are the cause for the divorce. This is a very damaging attitude for their emotional well being and should be avoided by giving more love. Hugs and Kisses and simple activities done together like dinner or sports can be very reassuring.

Children learn how to behave from their parents, and during a divorce it's very important that both parents conduct themselves with dignity and a true concern for the example they set for their children. Bouts of excessive drinking or casual affairs if observed by children of divorce are not only traumatizing, they force a child to tackle issues they may not be mature enough to understand.

Both parents and children have a connection that cannot afford to be severed. Parents must be careful what they say, for it will either hurt the child/parent relationship or bring about faith and confidence. Talking badly about one another can cause trust issues with children.

Both parents should keep observing how the child react to their day to day activities. Also they should keep watch of the kids activities in school as in the crisis time at home the child may be experiencing difficulties with home work and learning. So it is the responsibility of both parents to give a helping hand to the child to overcome his difficulties in school activities. Also parents should attend any extra curricular activities in the school to show your affection.

It takes a lot of extra effort, but when divorcing parents decide to work together to make this painful transition easier for their children, the benefits are tremendous. Without being subjected to a turbulent home life, children can quickly learn that it's not the end of the world, and they can feel confident and secure in the love of both mom and dad. - 15431

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