WHAT CAN DADS DO TO MAKE DIVORCE EASIER ON THEIR CHILDREN?

Divorce can be one of the hardest things anyone has to go through in life. Adults tend to forget that it’s hard on children, too. Too often, as spouses drift apart, they become too caught up in their own feelings to notice their children are hurting as well.

All parents want to be good parents. No matter what happens between them and their spouse, dads have an opportunity to step up and make this difficult time less so for their children.

An impending divorce brings so many negative emotions to the surface. This should never interfere with a child’s daily routine. Don’t let your children see you and your spouse argue. Fighting sets a bad example. Serious discussions should only happen privately, in the presence of a divorce attorney, or separately with therapists. Children need not be a part of this.

When the time is right, encourage your children to express how they feel about you and their mother not being together anymore. What they feel is real too, and this is a chance for you to show them that their feelings are just as important as yours.

Push to have custody and responsibilities split evenly. You still have to be a full-time dad. Children need structure even more when their parents aren’t together anymore. Make your new place theirs, too. Keep everything they need- school supplies, clothing, books, toys, games, etc.- and encourage them to have overnight visits whenever they can. This is an excellent way to ease their anxiety.

More than anything, never stop showing your children love and support. Hug them and praise them. Send them emails, texts, or cards and letters when they aren’t at your place. Little things like this can mean the world to a child.

Deciding to file for divorce is never an easy decision. The men’s divorce attorneys at Bailey Smith & Bailey can make this process easier so you can focus on what’s important: being there for your children. Contact us today to request a consultation.