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Tips to Minimize the Trauma of Divorce for Children

If you are in the midst of a contentious divorce and/or child custody battle, then take note if a few child therapy pointers that can minimize the negative effects of divorce.
This article presents a short list of key guidelines for children of divorce, including coexisting peacefully with your ex-spouse.

Syndicated columnist, college professor, and author Tom McMahon, offers the following guidelines for parents involved in contentious divorces to follow to minimize the negative effects on their children:

Coexist peacefully with your former spouse. This involves putting aside your differences for the sake of the children and supporting each other in the continuing roles as parents. Both parents should encourage each other to maintain contact with the children.
Do not argue in front of your children.
Children need consistency in their lives. Whenever possible, keep the same daily routines. If you share custody, both spouses should agree on the same household routines (bedtime, mealtime, discipline, etc.).
Do not use your children for emotional support during your divorce. Connect with adult friends and relatives for support.
Wait until your children are mostly healed from the divorce before you begin dating.

Source: “Minimizing The Trauma Of Divorce For Children” , published in The Morning News.

March 27, 2007 · Filed Under Children and Divorce, Post-Divorce Parenting, Child Custody and Visitation, All Child Divorce Articles