A divorce can impact an entire family unit, and no matter their age, children tend to experience complex emotions when their parents separate. Sometimes, children may internalize their feelings or not even know they’re experiencing them in the first place. While working with a family law professional is an important step for ensuring your child’s basic needs are met in terms of custody and child support, you should also watch for the following signs your child could be having trouble with your split.

5 Indicators Your Child Is Having Difficulty With Your Divorce

1. Changes in Eating or Sleeping Patterns

If your child has a change in appetite or is having trouble sleeping, take note. They might have trouble accepting the divorce, but working with a psychiatrist could help establish healthy communication and coping strategies.

2. Separation Challenges

It’s critical to pair with a family law expert who can defend your rights and work toward a custody agreement that’s in your child’s best interests. If your child gets upset upon leaving your home, don’t dismiss their feelings. Invite them to open up about their worries and quell their fears with explanations they can understand.

3. Withdrawal From Activities

Your child may feel sadness or frustration that makes their former activities less enjoyable. Encourage them to keep busy with the sports or extracurriculars they love, and make their routine as normal as possible by working with your co-parent to get them to their activities on time. Terms for activities may be possible to work out through family law representatives, as well.

4. Declining School Performance

If your child’s grades are dropping, get in touch with their teacher or school counselor to discuss their home situation. Set up a plan of action to help them get back on track with schoolwork. You and your ex might need to communicate to ensure consistency in terms of enforcing homework and studying habits.

5. Emotional Outbursts

Crying, arguing, or other forms of emotional outbursts can occur during and after divorces, even with children who are not typically inclined to be emotional or oppositional. Seeking outside professional help, such as counseling services, can help provide your child with the tools needed to process and talk through their emotions.

As an experienced family law team in Willow Springs, MO, the professionals at Privette Law Office know that divorce presents unique challenges. Their office has been providing legal support for locals for more than 30 years and will help ensure your best interests are met upon your separation. Learn more about their practice areas by visiting their website, or call (417) 469-3535 to schedule an appointment.