Children and Divorce
When it comes to handling the legal aspects of your divorce, you’ll be hard pressed to find a stauncher advocate than me. I know just how difficult the process can be, and no one will work harder to help you through it. Unfortunately, one of the bigger problems with divorce is what it can do to any children involved; they’ve spent their entire lives with married parents, and now that’s been turned upside down. While I can’t fix that problem, I managed to do a little research to provide you with some tips on how to help guide your kids through this most stressful time.
Be Positive
Moods are contagious, and if you act like the divorce is the end of the world, it will be for your kids. Make sure your children know that as bad as they might feel now, they will get through this.
Make sure your children have a strong support system
Your kids will be going through a lot, and it will help a great deal if they have a strong support structure around them; peers, extended family, school counselors and teachers.
Keep the lines of communication open
Your children may be angry at the situation; help them to discuss this anger and to understand why their parents are splitting up. Make sure the answers are age appropriate, using children’s books if necessary. And make sure they know that they can always come to you with any questions.
Present a united front
Refrain from arguing in front of your children, as doing so will increase stress. Explain to your children that the two of you worked together to make the decision that was the best possible for the family.
Consistency is key
A divorce takes the only life a child has ever known and changes it up. Try to maintain as set a schedule as you can, so your children will have that to count on.
Do something for yourself
If you’re not happy, your children will sense that and will reflect it. Make sure that your own mental health is strong as you watch out for the mental health of your kids. More importantly, don’t rely on your children for emotional support.
Of course, these tips are no substitute for trained psychological assistance, and if your mental health problems are too great, you should certainly seek professional help.
If you need representation in a divorce matter or in another aspect of family law, or if you just have questions, please feel free to contact me.
Michael C. Craven is a well-known divorce attorney in Chicago, CPA and a partner of the law firm, Beermann Pritikin Mirabelli Swerdlove LLP located in the Chicago area. He is highly respected among other divorce attorneys, judges and his clients. He also holds a Master of Tax Law Degree (LLM). Michael is available to provide speaking engagements on topics related to Illinois Family Law to professionals, community or religious organizations. For more information about all of his services, contact Michael at mccraven@beermannlaw.com or at Divorce Lawyers Chicago
