INDUSTRY INSIGHT
DIVORCE AND FAMILY LAW
SPONSORED CONTENT
How to Help Your Children With a
SEPARATION
Children are impacted in many ways by a separation / divorce . Because of this , we offer some points to keep in mind ..
1 . You should make an extra effort to get along , especially when children are present . You should strive to make amicability a priority .
2 . You should not share adult information with your children . You should be honest when answering questions , but that does not include sharing details about your litigation .
3 . You should never speak negatively about the other parent to your children .
12 . Don ’ t ask your children to choose with whom they want to live .
13 . Focus on strengthening your relationship with the children . Don ’ t try to buy their affection with gifts .
14 . Always take the high road . You are a role model for your children .
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4 . You should not look for emotional support from your children . That is best provided by friends , clergy or therapists .
5 . When you spend 1-1 time with your children , really listen to them and give them an opportunity to share their feelings . Pay attention to verbal or physical cues . Consider whether professional help is appropriate .
6 . Allow your children to express themselves freely to you . Listen , and validate their feelings so they know you understand what you are hearing . Give your children reassurance .
7 . Try to maintain as much stability as possible , and avoid unnecessary changes . Most children do better with predictability and routine . If possible , wait a while before making big changes to their lives .
8 . Stay emotionally connected with your children during the process . Be involved in the details of their lives .
9 . Do not use your children as a “ messenger .” Communicate directly with the other parent .
10 . If possible , talk together with the children about the separation . Address together the anticipated changes that will occur .
11 . Reassure your children that they are not the cause of the separation .
Cranberry | Winter 2016 | icmags . com 9