Although divorce rates are near an all time low, divorces are still all to common in the United States. While this life changing event is understandably difficult for adults, it has the potential to be even more damaging to the children. Although reactions to divorce vary greatly amongst children based on a host of considerations, there are recognized, practical ways to make the process easier for them and reduce the likelihood of short and long term consequences. Here are a few of the most effective ways to lessen the impact of divorce on your children. 

Present a United Front

Children should never feel like they are caught in the middle of their parents’ divorce. For this reason, it is essential to present a unified front where both parents promise to (i) support one another and refrain from engaging in acts that undermine the other parent’s authority; (ii) refrain from involving children in parental conflicts; and (iii) foster feelings of love and affection toward both parents and refrain from making the children choose between them. Abiding by these guidelines will reduce the likelihood of negative feelings which will allow for lower levels of stress and anxiety for all involved. 

Focus on the Children 

You may not want to lose any time with the kids, but in most instances it is in the children’s best interest to maintain a close bond  with equal time spent with both parents. Custodial decisions that are motivated in a desire to ensure a strong bond with both parents are both best for the children and favored in the law. By focusing on the children first, you can preserve a strong bond and remain amicable with your ex. 

Step-families 

Step-families are the fastest growing type of family in the United States. It is essential that remarried parties recognize the importance of both a healthy marital partnership between the remarried couple and the stepparent and stepchild. First, the emotional health of the children are significantly affected by the emotional health of the marital partnership and everyone will benefit if the remarried couple establishes a primary marital bond where they are secure that each has the other’s best interests at heart. Second, the health of the stepparent/stepchild relationship will rise or fall on various factors, such as the age of the child and the proper assumed parental role of the stepparent, the stepparent's appreciation of the child’s relationship with both parents, the proper parental role of the stepparent and the effort to nurture the child to be secure in the new family.

Notwithstanding the ideals that may have been developed in our youth envisioning a long and happy adult married life to a single spouse, divorce happens and is difficult on all involved. It is important to realize that divorce is not the end of the line and can serve as a positive beginning to a new stage of life. Minimizing the consequences of divorce on children should be a primary objective of all divorced parents, and future custody and relationship decisions should be motivated in a desire to accomplish this objective.

If you want to file for divorce, turn to the Law Offices Of Robert B. Liotta, Esq. in Lower Burrell, PA. Attorney Robert Liotta has been practicing law since 1999 and offers a variety of legal services. In addition to assisting with divorce and child custody, this knowledgeable attorney helps clients navigate real estate transactions, personal injury suits, and estate planning. To learn more about his family law services, visit his website. To request an initial consultation, call (724) 334-9870.