Divorce can be difficult for people of all ages, but it can be a particularly delicate situation for children. Since they aren’t involved in the decision to separate, it’s easy for kids to feel left out amid legal proceedings. To help your children acclimate to the changes while you work with an attorney, use the following advice.

4 Ideas to Help Navigate Divorce With Kids 

Inspire to Co-Parent

While a romantic relationship with your spouse may be over, it doesn’t mean you can’t continue to raise your children together. Have a conversation with your spouse about co-parenting, including how to stay in touch about your children’s academic and social lives, and any hardships they may experience under separate roofs. Then, sit down as a family and express your willingness to work as a team and remain a guiding force in their lives.

Don’t Use Legal Lingo

While a divorce lawyer might refer to time with your children as “visitation,” this term can sound temporary or frightening to kids. Instead, explain the new living scenario to your children as living with both parents, not just visiting one for the weekend. This way, they don’t feel like they live in one house and are guests in another.

Ask for Input

As you work out issues with your spouse and lawyers, don’t forget to take your children’s opinions to heart, as well. Ask them if they are comfortable with the new living schedule, and let them know they can always come to you if they’re unhappy or uncomfortable with the arrangements. Their input will make them feel more involved in your new life as a family as well.

Get a Referral for a Child Specialist

If your children are having trouble coming to terms with the pending divorce, ask your attorney to recommend a child specialist. These counselors are well-versed in the issues that affect children of divorce, and they have the training to help kids process these situations and develop the coping skills they’ll need. 

If you’re looking for an attorney in Anchorage or the Matanuska-Susitna valley to help your family through a divorce, get in touch with Darryl L. Jones, Attorney at Law in Palmer, AK. This firm has over 30 years of experience with divorce law. They can also handle custody and adoption cases, as well as criminal law offenses. To schedule an initial consultation, call them at (907) 746-9851, and visit the website to learn more about their services.