Divorce has become more and more common in Tampa and throughout Florida. According to a WCTV.tv report, for every one hundred marriages across the state in 2014, there were 54 divorces. For adults, going through the end of a marriage can be one of the most challenging experiences of their lives. For the children of divorcing couples, however, this type of major life change can be all the more difficult. While parents cannot eliminate all of the upset that their split may cause their kids, there are things they can do to help their children adjust to and deal with the change.
Often, a divorce means significant changes for families. One household may separate into two, which means children may see less of one parent than they are accustomed to. In order to limit their children’s anxiety during this already tumultuous time, it is recommended that parents avoiding introducing other major changes into their kids’ lives if possible. Rather, they should do their best to maintain their usual daily and family routines.
At the end of a marriage, it is common for divorcing spouses to have feelings of hurt or animosity towards one another. This may lead to frequent arguments. According to Parents magazine, however, that the children who have the most difficulty adjusting to divorce are those who are subjected to ongoing disputes between their parents. Thus, it is suggested that parents who are going through a marriage dissolution have heated or difficult conversations when their children are not around. This may help avoid exposing their kids to adult issues or making them feel as though they have to choose a side.
When they are told their parents are getting divorced, children may have a range of reactions. Very young children may not understand, while older kids may be confused, upset or hurt. In some cases, the kids of divorcing parents may feel that they are to blame for the split. Due to the range of emotions they may experience, kids may have a variety of reactions to their parents’ divorce. It is important for parents to be prepared for how their children might react to the news and to reassure them that it is okay to feel the way they do.
