As a parent, you likely worry about your children on a daily basis. You may wonder whether they are getting enough sleep, eating right, receiving enough support from you, handling schoolwork well and numerous other issues that are going in their lives. You may also worry even more now that you and their other parent are going through divorce.
Children can handle divorce in varying ways. Their general temperament, age, relationship with each parent and other factors could all play a role in how children react and adjust to divorce. Of course, you want to do what you can to make the transition as easy as possible for them.
Helping your children through divorce
Ending your marriage will likely have emotional impacts on you, and your children will probably have emotional reactions as well. They may feel a sense of guilt because they believe that they had something to do with the divorce, or they may feel anxiety about what life will be like after the divorce ends. These feelings are understandable, and you may worry about handling them in the best way. Typically, offering your children reassurance and being there for them can go a long way in handling these emotions.
It is also possible that your children may begin to test the boundaries of the new arrangements by acting out. Even if a child never had behavior issues before, it is possible for changes to occur because of those feelings of anxiety or stress. At this time, it is helpful for children to have routine and structure, so you and the other parent may want to make sure that you maintain similar household structure and discipline to keep kids on track.
Finding the right custody arrangement
The custody arrangement and the way you interact with your ex-spouse can play roles in how well your children adjust to these changes. Remaining civil and calm with the other parent may help lessen the children’s anxiety about whether they have to choose between parents. You undoubtedly want to find the custody arrangements that will work in your children’s best interests and allow them to maintain strong relationships with both parents.
It is understandable to have concerns about your children and custody arrangements. If you hope to find the best terms for your family, you may want to discuss your options with a Wisconsin family law attorney.
