Going through a divorce is a big change for you. Your children will also have to learn how to live a vastly different life than what they’re accustomed to.
As a parent, you must do what’s best for your children. This doesn’t mean always doing the easiest things. You have to look at the whole picture so you know what you should do. One of the most important things to remember is that creating the parenting plan must be a priority.
1: Being a parenting team is best
You and your ex should focus on being a parenting team. This means that you have to leave the past alone and focus on raising the children. You can’t let the emotional issues from the end of the relationship cloud your judgment about decisions regarding the children.
2: Children might play parents against each other
After a divorce, the children may try to take advantage of having divorced parents. This can cause issues between the parents because the kids may get one parent to agree to something the other parent already said no to. You and your ex should have direct and open communication to prevent this from happening. Establishing ground rules about important matters also helps.
3: Outside help might be necessary
Seeking outside assistance to help the children adjust to the new way of life might be necessary. Talking to trusted adults, such as teachers and coaches, may provide the kids with the support they need. These adults can also watch for signs that the children need more help with the transition into the new way of life.
Ultimately, you have to do what’s best for the children. Trying to stabilize the situation as soon as possible after the split is usually for the best.