Tips for Helping Children Cope After an Illinois Divorce

 Posted on March 17, 2021 in Divorce

The end of a marriage can occur for many reasons, including infidelity, abuse, addiction and financial problems. But sometimes, spouses may put off filing for divorce, especially if they have children. Parents often worry about the emotional impact their split can have on their kids in the immediate aftermath of a divorce as well as in the future. However, studies have shown that children can be more traumatized when parents who have a toxic relationship stay together. Constant exposure to arguments is not healthy and may prevent children from having positive attitudes or relationships themselves. Fortunately, there are ways for parents to minimize the negative effect of a divorce on their children so all involved can live “happily ever after.”     

Alleviating the Stress of the Situation 

How children react to a divorce typically depends on their age, personality and the circumstances of the breakup. The initial reaction may be disbelief, anger, sadness, anxiety or worry. During a divorce, kids can also learn valuable tools for dealing with stress, and as a result many children eventually become more flexible, tolerant adults. Navigating this major life change often depends on how the parents handle the process. 

Some of the things that parents can do to help kids through this difficult transition include:

• Keep conflict to a minimum by not discussing legal matters or fighting in front of the kids;

• Recognize and legitimize the children’s feelings by listening to them and acknowledging if they feel anxious or scared;  

• Minimize disruptions to the children’s daily routines by maintaining a sense of normalcy or consistency;

• Encourage the kids to attend counseling or therapy sessions, which parents can also attend;

• Practice healthy lifestyle choices by eating nutritional food and getting plenty of exercise and sleep, which sets a good example for the children; and, 

• Stay involved in the children’s lives by engaging with them during parenting time, which means giving them your undivided attention.

Contact a Hillside, IL Divorce Lawyer

A divorce can be challenging even when both spouses mutually agree to it and agree on all the decisions that need to be made. At the long-established Law Office of Vincent C. Machroli, P.C., we have over 33 years of proven success in resolving numerous types of family law matters. Our highly-rated and compassionate Oak Park divorce attorney understands the sensitive nature of ending a marriage when children are involved. Call us today at 708-449-7404 to schedule a free consultation and learn more about the ways we can assist you.  

Source:

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs5.asp?ActID=2086&ChapterID=59