Divorce and separation bring changes in lifestyle and routines. This page summarizes and comments on the information presented in the Familieschange children and teens pages about divorce/separation and change.
While dealing with the many changes, it is important to focus on two key things that will never change.
- You, your children, and your former partner are still a family, just a different kind i.e. divorce doesn’t mean you lose your family.
- Both parents will always love and care for them i.e. divorce doesn’t mean you lose a parent.
Your children will need to be told and reminded of these truths over and over again. This reassurance will help them adjust to the things that will change.
Much of the change associated with divorce and separation centres on new living arrangements. If you will be moving, it is helpful to share as much as you can with the children as the details of new living arrangements become clear. Sometimes the children have two homes, living part of their time with each parent. In this case, care must be taken to ensure that the children feel at home in both places. If finances permit, your children should have essentials such as toothbrushes and other grooming items available in both homes. Living out of a suitcase suggests that they are visiting, rather than spending time in a second home. Having the child talk to the other parent every day is a good routine.
Sometimes, the children will spend more time with one parent than the other. In this case, they will almost certainly miss the absent parent. Children need a loving relationship with both parents. You can reassure your children that both of you love them now and forever with phone calls, letters, cards, photographs and emails. One of the most loving things you can do for your children is to support their relationship with the other parent.
Finances also change with separation and divorce. It is more expensive to run two households than one. This simple fact means that, in most cases, divorce and separation result in at least a temporary drop in disposable income. Children need to know that there may be less money for buying new things or eating out. It doesn’t need to mean less fun though. Try starting some new traditions, like a Friday night picnic instead of Friday night pizza.
Often it is impossible to keep the children in the family home, and a move is necessary. If the new home requires a change of schools, explore ways that you can delay the change until the beginning of a new school year when the transition is easier. Children are adaptable though, and even if they must change schools immediately, they will adjust. You can help them become familiar ahead of time with new bus or walking routes. Younger children might be reassured by visiting the school playground on an evening or weekend. Most schools have web sites with photographs and other information that will help you and your children prepare.
Another change you may need to discuss with your children is the increased household responsibility they may face. Prior to the divorce or separation, two adults shared the household chores. Explain to your children that with only one adult in the home, you will be asking them to pitch in and help more often.
Relationships with extended family may change, temporarily or for a long time. It is natural that some family members will take sides. If there are relatives who can remain focused on the well-being of the children, your children will benefit from seeing them as often as possible.
Your children may also experience some positive changes. They may be relieved that any tension or fighting is reduced. By spending more time alone with each parent, they might get to know each of you better and have better parental relationships. You and your former partner might even be happier and more fun to be with. After a separation, parents often value the time they have with their children differently.
During times of change, reassure your children that they are still the same people they always were. It is important to see their friends and continue with the activities they enjoy, even though things are changing.
Helping your children deal with the changesTransition to your new family life
