Tips to Help Your Child Deal With the Upset of a Divorce

If you're getting divorced and there are children involved, you'll want to protect your child from the potentially rancorous divorce process. Although there is no sure-fire way to protect a child from the conflict and stress a divorce creates, there are things you can do to ensure better outcomes for the child.

Here are some tips to help children get through a divorce with minimal stress.

Deal With Your Loss in a Positive Way

Getting a divorce is usually a major loss since it means you're walking away from a relationship that you vowed to protect for the rest of your life. But the circumstances of your marriage can change, pushing you into making the unforeseen decision to end the marriage.

In order to protect your children from the loss of a divorce, you need to accept and deal with your own loss in a positive manner. Children get their strength from their parents, so you shouldn't be falling apart at a time when your children need you the most. 

Don't Speak Disparagingly About the Other Parent in Front of the Child

Under the Australian legal system, couples file for divorce on a "no-fault" basis. The makers of this law probably had the best interest of children in mind when they made with this provision. 

While there are different circumstances that result in the irretrievable breakdown of marriages, ideally, it is advisable not to let a child know "who is at fault." Children need to maintain a healthy relationship with both parents post-divorce, so it's important to speak positively about the other parent whenever you're in their presence. 

Use non-judgmental language to avoid making your child feel rage and bitterness toward that parent. 

Be Civil When Dealing With the Other Parent

Being thoughtful and polite when dealing with the other parent can help to ensure a fast and smooth divorce process but also minimise the conflict and stress that a divorce creates to all those involved, including the children.

Even if you don't like the other parent, dealing with them in a courteous and respectful manner will help to protect the children from the emotional turmoil a divorce can create.

Talk to Your Child About the Divorce

If your child is old enough to understand that getting a divorce means they'll no longer be able to live with both parents, it's important to explain to them that they're not to blame for the divorce and they're still loved unconditionally. 

If there are no abusive circumstances, let them know that they will still be able to spend time with both parents, albeit separately.

Need professional help with helping your child through a divorce? Contact a divorce lawyer to discuss your family situation and figure out the best ways to protect the child deal with the disruption a divorce can cause in their lives.

Share