The last thing that any self-aware parent wants is for the stresses of everyday life to affect his or her kids. Parenthood usually results in an instinct to protect one’s offspring from harm and from any stresses that are not absolutely necessary for building character. As a result, it can be particularly maddening when the divorce process begins to take a toll on kids of any age. Very few parents would ever wish for their kids to be affected by the stresses of divorce.
Thankfully, there are many things that parents can do to shield their children from unnecessary stress associated with the divorce process. Of course, it is impossible to shield kids from all stress at this time, but it is possible to make sure their exposure to it is relatively limited. And it is also possible to help children channel their stress in healthy ways so that it does not cause them undue harm now or in the future.
Avoiding Unnecessary Stresses
One of the primary reasons why kids stress out during the divorce process is that they are frequently exposed to their parents’ heightened stress levels. While you certainly do not need to hide the fact that the divorce process is affecting you, it is a good idea to avoid exposing your children to your most emotionally fraught moods and behaviors. If you need to yell, find a safe space away from your kids to yell. If you feel compelled to punch something, seek out a punching bag at the gym. If you need to rant about your spouse, call a friend while you are out of the house and away from your kids. If your children see that you manage your stresses in healthy ways and that you keep them away from the fray when possible, they will almost certainly thank you for that effort at some future point in time.
Channeling Unavoidable Stress
Some stress is inevitably tied to the divorce process. As a result, it is helpful to use this opportunity to teach your kids how to deal with their stresses constructively. Encouraging your kids to get active, to seek out mindfulness activities like yoga and to express their feelings creatively are all great starting points. Children as young as two can benefit from these kinds of approaches to stress management. When life hands your kids stress, consider teaching them how to manage it in the healthiest ways possible.
Help Is Available
One of the biggest sources of stress for parents during the divorce process is the legal necessity to divide marital property and determine both child custody and child support. When you have an experienced family law attorney on your side who can construct a strong legal strategy, many stresses associated with the process will be significantly lessened. If your stress level is skyrocketing and you need someone in your corner to handle the legal aspects of the divorce process, consider contacting an experienced family lawyer Frisco, TX relies on today. Lowering your stress level in this way will almost certainly help both you and your child(ren).
Thank you to our friends and contributors at Scroggins Law Group for their insight into family law and the stress of divorce.